Memory Care For My Loved One

Deciding when to consider memory care for a loved one can be a difficult and emotional decision. Here are some signs that it might be the right time to consider memory care.

Safety concerns: If your family member is at risk of harm for wandering away, forgetting to turn off appliances, cannot manage medications or other life skills; it may be time to consider memory care where he can receive assistance and supervision of daily tasks.

Caregiving responsibilities are overwhelming: Caring for a person with dementia is more than a full-time job, and not all families have the knowledge, patience, or the time to provide 24-hour care. Placing your loved one in a memory care facility can help alleviate some of the stress and allows you to focus on maintaining a positive relationship with him.

Social Isolation: Loneliness can exacerbate memory issues. If your loved one is becoming increasingly isolated due to their memory problems, a memory care facility can provide that socialization with activities designed to engage his needs.

Agitation or Behavior Changes: Memory issues can sometimes lead to agitation, aggression, or other challenging behaviors. Memory care facilities have staff trained in managing these behaviors and can provide a structured environment that may help to reduce agitation. You may notice an improvement in that area.

Decline in Physical and Mental Health; Memory issues can sometimes coincide with declining Physical health. If your loved one’s health is deteriorating and he requires more assistance with activities of daily living, a memory care facility with trained staff can provide the strength and support needed. Moving to a memory care earlier rather than waiting for symptoms to worsen offers a better solution.

It is important to involve your loved one with the memory needs to share in the decision-making process as much as possible and to explore the best options to fit their needs and preferences. Additional consulting with other family members can provide valuable input and support in making this decision.