Memory problems are often subtle in the beginning. If you have a loved one living alone, you may not notice that they are having issues with their memory until they do something way out of character. Over time, the need for memory care will develop as the person is no longer able to remain safe while living alone. Forgetfulness is common in a person developing dementia, but it goes beyond typical forgetfulness that can happen if you are distracted. When a person living alone gets lost while driving or can't remember how to perform basic tasks in the home, it's time to assess what is going on.
In Home Care for Memory Issues
In the early stages of memory loss, many people get support in the form of care providers in the home. This can make it easier for a person with early memory loss to stay at home for longer. With help to cook meals, take care of laundry, and drive to medical appointments, it is possible to live at home with early memory loss when the right services are in place. Once the person needs more constant care for their own safety, it's time to think about a memory care unit, like those at Spruce Point.
Assisted Living vs. Skilled Nursing Home
When a person is no longer safe living at home alone, an assisted living facility or a skilled nursing home is the next logical step. If the person is able to take care of their own personal care needs, an assisted living facility may be enough. Residents of an assisted living facility are generally independent, but they live in a community setting where they are checked on frequently. Meals are provided, as well as laundry services in assisted living. Some people with memory care needs live in assisted living for awhile and then move on to a more structured skilled nursing facility.
Making the Move to a New Living Arrangement
It is not safe for a person with memory issues to live at home alone with no support. When you discover that a loved one is at risk, it's time to encourage a move to a safe environment. Talk to your loved one in a compassionate way, and look for ways to make the move a positive one.
Memory care needs are different for everyone. In early stages, living at home can be possible. Once the individual isn't safe at home, it's time to find a more supportive environment.
Share3 September 2019
Recently, my mom took my grandmother to her physician for a regular check-up. During this visit, the doctor discovered my grandmother had a cracked bone in her foot. Due to my grandmother’s dementia, she didn’t know if she had fallen or dropped something on her foot. My family and I decided my grandmother shouldn’t live on her own anymore. Do you desperately desire to protect an elderly loved one from harm? If he or she is currently living alone, consider placing your loved one in a nursing home or an assisted living facility. By making this move, you won’t have to worry anymore about the possibility of your relative falling with no one to help him or her. On this blog, I hope you will discover the numerous benefits of moving a senior loved one into a nursing home or assisted living facility. Enjoy!