When does someone need memory care?

Each person is different, and many people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s can live on their own during the early stages of the disease, especially if a family member or caregiver provides regular in-home care. However, there may come a time when your loved one needs more care than you feel you can provide at home.

Here are a few signs it may be time for memory care:

• Alzheimer’s, dementia, or another dementia-related condition diagnosis
  • Once a diagnosis is given, it’s time to begin having conversations about memory care. This is your best opportunity to begin visiting, touring, and exploring reputable, licensed memory care facilities in your area. Transitioning earlier allows your loved one to have a say in their future, which is extremely important. It also enables necessary adjustment time so they’re familiar with their surroundings. This allows for forming relationships and connections with staff, employees, and other residents when they progress to the later stages of dementia.

• An unhealthy living environment
  • Pay attention if your loved one starts to abandon chores around the house, if there’s spoiled food in the fridge, or if lots of trash is piled up. That’s a sign that they are forgetting regular home maintenance. When a person can no longer upkeep their living space, it’s time for a memory care facility.

• Changes in behaviors
  • The primary indicators to look for a change in your loved one’s behavior. A person living with a memory disorder might become anxious or irritated. They may also forget to do daily tasks or upkeep their hygiene.

• The caregiver is overwhelmed
  • Taking care of a person with dementia or Alzheimer’s can be challenging. No matter if a family member is a caregiver or an in-home nurse, stress is inevitable. When the burden of overseeing the person becomes overwhelming, that’s a sign.

• A decline in overall health
  • As memory loss sets in, so do the abilities to drive a car, make grocery lists, prepare food, remember daily medications, or even remember to eat. Losing track of days and times can have a disastrous effect on the circadian rhythm, contributing to Sundowner’s syndrome, insomnia, and other sleep disorders that take a toll on one’s health and well-being.