DEMENTIA: WHAT IS IT? AND HOW DOES IT FEEL?

March 20, 2023
, , , memory care

dementiaYou may have been in a foreign city or neighborhood and shopped at a large box store. Although it looks identical to your local store in many ways, such as the logo and color scheme, but you walk down an aisle expecting breakfast cereals only to discover that there are school supplies. It can feel a bit disorienting. This disorienting feeling could be a glimpse at how someone with dementia sees the world.

You’re familiar with the effects of dementia on the behavior and personality of your loved ones. What does dementia look like inside? Understanding the perspective of your loved one can help you to feel more connected and compassionate.

What is dementia?

A set of symptoms that lead to cognitive decline is called dementia. You may experience it due to a number of conditions and diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, traumatic brain injury, and Parkinson’s. The following symptoms may be present:

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HOW TO FIND THE BEST MEMORY CARE FACILITY

March 16, 2023
, , memory care

memory careThere are times when it is easy to second-guess your decision or question what you should do. Sometimes it can be difficult to determine if you made the right decision. That feeling can last long after you make your decision. You may not know if you have found the right choice until you make the decision. This is especially true when you are trying to make a life-changing decision, such as finding the best memory care facility for a loved one.

This blog post will help you if this describes a situation that keeps you awake at night. Although our memory care checklist will help you identify the things to look out for and ask questions, choosing the right memory care provider is subjective.

It’s not about the amenities or bricks-and-mortar a community offers. It’s about how it feels. While location, design, and activities are all important, there is more to selecting a memory care facility.

This blog will help you to understand how to choose a memory care community that is right for you and your loved ones.

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Assisted Living: Warning Signs Of Dementia

February 28, 2023
, , assisted living

dementiaDementia is a life-altering condition characterized by declining thinking and physical abilities, but it can be hard to detect in its early stages. While aging brings about gradual change, dementia often has subtle yet distinct signs that must not go unnoticed – especially when your loved one may try to mask them.

Assisted Living: Signs of Dementia

Dementia manifests differently from person to person, making it hard to spot. However, there are commonly observed warning signs that may indicate the onset of this condition; keeping an eye out for patterns in their behavior can help you determine whether your loved one is suffering from dementia or not.

Memory loss

As we age, it’s normal to experience the occasional memory lapse. However, if your loved one is finding themselves increasingly reliant on aids like post-it notes or repeatedly forgetting names of familiar people in their lives – this could be indicative of an early sign of dementia. Don’t ignore these warning signs and look for medical guidance as soon as possible should you suspect any related symptoms. Don’t hesitate to look for a memory care facility if necessary.

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How To Talk to Alzheimer’s or Dementia Patients

February 2, 2023
, , , memory care

dementiaSenior citizens and others in their circle of influence face the challenge of declining cognition. People with cognitive conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, will eventually lose their ability to think. They might have difficulty learning, remembering, paying attention, and reasoning. These issues can make communication with older adults difficult. There are some things caregivers and family members can do to help make communication easier and less frustrating for all.

The Reality of Memory for Dementia Patients

There are four types of memory available to people: episodic memory, working memory, prospective memory, and semantic memory.

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Checklist For Finding a Memory Care Facility

December 15, 2022
, , memory care

memory careIt can be difficult to choose the right memory care community for your loved one. There are many factors that need to be considered. We created a memory checklist to ensure that your loved one is happy, safe, and well taken care of.

Finding a Memory Care Facility

1. Know your loved ones’ priorities and needs

Finding the right memory care facility for your loved one starts with prioritizing their needs.

Do you think your parent needs assistance with daily activities (ADLs), such as dressing, bathing, and eating? It’s crucial to know how the staff at memory care will help your loved one throughout the day and night if they have a memory impairment.

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Caring For Seniors With Memory Care Needs During The Holidays

December 6, 2022
, , memory care

memory careIt’s not unusual for seniors with memory care needs to find the holidays overwhelming. It can be difficult to navigate changes in routines and environments, loud social events, increased emphasis on food and drink, and other factors that may make it more challenging. It is important that loved ones with dementia feel included during holidays. Family is the true heart of holiday celebrations. Seniors often feel lonely or isolated at this time of the year. This is especially true if they are living alone or have lost their closest friends. what you can do is change your plans to best suit your loved ones who have Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Here are 7 ways to make the holidays more enjoyable for a senior with dementia:

Let them stick to a routine

Sudden changes can be upsetting or confusing for seniors needing memory care in Myrtle Beach. Simple considerations such as serving meals at the same time and in a familiar place can help.

Slowly make environmental changes

It’s a good idea for your loved one to spread decorations over several days if you are planning to decorate their living or bedroom. While decorations can bring joy and happiness to those with dementia, it is important to take the time to adjust to their needs. You may also slowly introduce the idea of assisted living to them and discuss their future.

Involve them in simple, but nostalgic activities

Ask them to help you bake holiday cookies and festive cupcakes. Or ask them to decorate a Christmas tree using ornaments passed down from one generation to another. It can be comforting and enjoyable for them to take part in familiar activities.

Prepare for family events

If you are taking your loved ones to a family event or party, make sure they have a place to go if they feel overwhelmed. Also, be clear with guests about your loved ones’ needs if necessary. Your loved one will be happier and more settled if you ask guests to lower the volume or refrain from using crackers or party poppers.

Reminisce on the good times

Many seniors with dementia enjoy the opportunity to relive old memories. It could be as simple as watching a favorite Christmas movie together or singing some of their favorite Christmas songs. This holiday season is a great time to reminisce on family memories. Why not create a digital album with old photos or videos that you can explore together?

Take time to consider their needs during mealtimes

Seniors with dementia often have difficulty eating. There are many reasons for these problems, such as decreased concentration, discomfort, depression, side effects from medication, and physical difficulties like chewing and swallowing. Avoid putting too much food on your loved one’s plate if they are having trouble eating. You may find that they are more comfortable with familiar foods than traditional festive dishes.

Ask them what they would like to do

Communicating with your loved ones is the best way for you to find out what works for you. Everyone is different and everyone has their own unique symptoms. Ask them to describe their ideal holiday celebration if they are able to communicate with you.

The holiday season can be a hectic time for families. It is difficult to think of ways to make your loved one feel included during this busy season. Although small modifications like those mentioned above may be helpful in certain cases. Always remember that every senior is unique. It is best to get professional help from experts at Reflections Assisted Living.

Call Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest now if you’re looking for a memory care facility in Myrtle Beach.

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Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest
219 Middleburg Dr
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 903-0700
https://www.reflectionsassistedliving.com/

Memory Care: Specialized Support For People With Alzheimer’s Disease or Dementia

September 29, 2022
, , memory care

memory careMemory care is a great option if it becomes difficult to care at home for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Memory care is a type of long-term residential care that offers intensive and specialized care to people with memory problems.

Many nursing homes, continuing care retirement communities, and assisted living facilities have memory care “neighborhoods”, which are designed for dementia patients. You can also find standalone memory care facilities.

According to the National Investment Center for Seniors Housing & Care (a non-profit that tracks industry trends), memory care is the fastest growing sector in senior housing. As COVID-19 devastated many long-term care facilities, occupancy rates dropped in 2020.

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Reasons Not To Feel Guilty About A Move For Assisted Living

August 30, 2022
, , assisted living

guilt assisted livingIt’s one of the most difficult decisions you will make in your entire life.

Many caregivers feel guilty about putting a parent into assisted living or moving their relative, spouse, or close friend into assisted living, a nursing facility, or memory care.

It’s essential to take someone out of their home if it becomes unsafe or impossible to continue this living arrangement either physically or financially. The reality is that, even though this decision is best for their health or safety, it can still cause guilt and sadness.

Understanding the root cause of guilt is important in helping you to accept the change and reduce stress.

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The Importance Of Size When Choosing The Right Memory Care Community

August 9, 2022
, , memory care

memory careThe task of finding memory care for a loved one can seem overwhelming and daunting.

You will discover that every community has its own unique characteristics. This is in addition to researching and finding different senior living options and memory care options. These distinctive qualities may be explained by the representative of the community. They will also describe the uniqueness of assisted living community, such as its specialization in memory care.

Memory Care Options: Are bigger things really better?

During your tour, you might notice that certain memory care communities are smaller than others.

Family members often ask which size is best for their loved ones.

It’s crucial to reflect on your loved one’s daily life and how it was in the past.

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Visit Your Loved One in a Memory Care Facility

July 22, 2022
, , memory care

memory careAlzheimer’s can be a devastating disease. While you do your best to care for your loved ones, sometimes it might be time to transfer them to a memory care facility.

It’s difficult and delicate, but it’s essential to enjoy your time with your loved one. These are some tips to help you make the most of your visit to a memory care facility.

Tips When Visiting Your Loved One In A Memory Care Facility

A gift is a great way of spending time with someone you care about and to show your appreciation. Sometimes it can be difficult to choose what gift to give someone with dementia.

Make a photo album that reflects your life together. You can bring a game of cards or a puzzle to play together during your visit. It’s all about being creative and thinking outside the box.

Be Patient

Many memory care facilities advise that residents not visit for at least the first week. Because the nurses and aides must spend time helping the residents adjust to their new surroundings, this is a common recommendation. Remember to be patient when you arrive for your first visit.

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