When a loved one develops age-related dementia and Alzheimer’s, you can’t just jump into action and start making plans. The problems develop over time. Eventually, their emotional and psychological issues will pose new challenges. Memory loss can make it difficult to function. It often disrupts daily life. It’s at this time that your loved one may need memory care.
The truth is, the sooner you move that individual into a memory care community, the better. In dementia care settings such as these, people can obtain better outcomes on an emotional, physical and mental level. The question is, when is the right time to make that move? These signs below can help you find out.
Neglecting Personal Care and Hygiene
When your loved one uses unwashed or wrinkled clothing, forgets to take a bath, or wash their hands, this could be a red flag for dementia. Adequate dementia care can provide that person with help for their daily needs.
Developing Feelings of Isolation and Loneliness
When someone affected with either of these conditions feels like a burden, they are more likely to sink into loneliness and isolation. Based on reports, 62% of people with dementia who live alone report feeling lonely. This is such a predominant issue that impacts them on a regular basis.
In a memory care community, these problems can be avoided. People can take part in entertaining and meaningful activities meant to mitigate the anxiety and agitation that comes with this health condition.
Unexplained Wandering
The moment the affected individual wakes up in the middle of the night, dazed and confused, they tend to wander. Wandering exposes them to danger.
Hoarding Behavior
Garbage, food, clothes, and unnecessary items keep piling up in the home. In early dementia, hoarding behavior can occur. Memory care is here to control that behavior.
Constant Worrying About the Safety of a Loved One
The forgetfulness is affecting your loved ones around the clock, making it troublesome for them to function. Memory care is here to establish safety with specialized care.
Stressing Out About Your Own Safety
When dementia gets worse, some individuals develop different personalities. They become agitated or confused. This change can lead to violence and anger. Dementia care creates a structured and safe environment where these problems can be prevented.
Regular Physical and Emotional Exhaustion
As a caregiver, you can’t help but feel burned out. Your health is taking a downward spiral, so now you need a pair of extra hands. Memory care is here to provide that level of assistance.
Neglecting Finances
Does your loved one have a ton of unpaid bills piling up? Do you regularly get collection notices about the terrible state of your financial situation? Are you worried they will be a victim of a financial scam? Then, by all means, have them try dementia care. Age-related cognitive decline exposes people to very risky situations. While their forgetfulness can make it tricky for them to take note of their money and resources.
Regular Changes in Posture, Weight, and Mobility
A forgetful person tends to skip meals. They can also have trouble managing their normal weight. People with dementia are walking slowly and prone to disorientation and confusion. With dementia care, people get regular monitoring, which is crucial for managing their wellness and nutrition.
You Want to Work on Your Relationship
If your loved one became angry or anxious due to their health condition, then your relationship may have deteriorated over time. It has made it difficult for the two of you to function together. Memory care is here to change that. Not only do you get time to spend with that person. But, you also get to see a better version of them. Since medical experts will be watching their every need, it becomes easier to control the stressors and live comfortably.
