If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s, we can help your family navigate the complicated memory care journey. Although a common emotion expressed is one of feeling alone, please know that you’re not. In fact, every 65 seconds, someone in the U.S. develops Alzheimer’s.
At Ingleside Memory Support Assisted Living, we’d like to reassure you that we’re here as a resource for you and your family – every step of the way.
One of the most empowering actions you can take is to start educating yourself about the disease and all of the options that may be available.
As you read our blog, some of the fear and confusion should begin to lift. We can help you manage your expectations and prepare for the decisions that might need to be made. But mostly, we hope you’ll see that you truly aren’t on your own.
What is Memory Care?
You’ve most likely heard the term but may not be completely aware of what it means, what services are offered and when it may become necessary. Memory care is long-term care personalized for those living with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia. It can be offered as part of a skilled nursing or assisted living community or in a stand-alone facility.
Assistance with bathing, getting dressed, medication management and social activities are included. But the care is specialized to address those struggling with cognitive impairment. The staff are trained to understand the behavior expressed by those with dementia and how best to respond.
The most beneficial memory support communities go beyond providing only a safe and secure place to live. They create meaningful and compassionate relationships with the residents and their families. Their services offered encourage a connection between the individuals, families, friends and staff, finding ways they can all contribute significantly to each other’s lives.
When Memory Care at Home isn’t Enough
Most families begin their care at home when first diagnosed. This likely is where the person is most comfortable and the surroundings and caregivers are familiar. But as the disease progresses, even with outside help, the challenges of care can become more considerable.
It’s a good idea for families to learn about memory care communities before it’s needed. It can be reassuring to know that if it becomes necessary, the right structure, services and support are available, 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.
A Memory Support Community Can Improve the Quality of Life
If your loved one needs more care than you can provide, it can be normal to feel that the situation is hopeless. But we encourage you to remember that one of the greatest benefits that can be experienced with memory care is improved quality of life. Once this transition is made, many residents and their families report a reduction in anxiety, an increase in the individual’s feeling more independent and relief in knowing all the care needed will be delivered.
For the first time since the diagnosis, you may find yourself actually breathing easier, just from knowing that caring for your loved one is now shared and no longer your responsibility alone. You may also be surprised that once the community is providing the primary care, you’ll now be able to return to the relationship you once had – the role of loving companion.
What Services are Offered at a Memory Care Community?
Generally, they include opportunities for socializing, fitness and wellness, dining and 24-hour nursing care. Those providing care should be specially trained in understanding the behavior of dementia residents and how best to respond. Interactions between the staff and residents should also illustrate the ways in which simple joys and happiness are brought to their lives.
It’s important that the families also receive care and support, as this disease affects everyone involved. Providing information, encouragement and suggestions while including you in the care of your loved one are the qualities you’ll want to find as you search for the best care. Remember, all memory care facilities can be different in what they offer so it’s important to visit and ask questions at each community you may be considering.
What You’ll Find at Ingleside’s Memory Support Assisted Living
Ingleside’s Wellbeing Philosophy is based on these founding principles, which you’ll discover are at the center of the care we offer your loved one and family:
- Authentic Living: Continuing the routine that has been central to one’s life.
- Autonomy: Honoring each person’s natural human right to self-determination, choice and control of daily life.
- Wellness: Having access to and participating in purposeful and meaningful activity.
- Purposeful Living: Recognizing that people experience purpose in a variety of ways.
- Connection: Feeling seen, heard and valued simply for the sake of being who they are.
- Being Seen: Enhancing each person’s engagement in knowing themselves as a valued and important member of the community.
Experience Our Quality of Life at an Ingleside Memory Support Neighborhood
Our neighborhoods are specifically designed to create an optimal environment for those living with dementia or Alzheimer’s. Along with our person-directed approach to wellness, we help those living with cognitive challenges to be empowered and fully engaged.
We hope you’ll visit one of our Memory Support Assisted Living neighborhood soon to get to know us and see for yourself the services and amenities we offer, which include:
- Intimate and secure residential neighborhoods
- Spacious, sun-filled apartments with large windows
- Individualized therapeutic programs offering music, art, movement, pet and recreational therapy
- Person-directed service plans that incorporate the seven dimensions of wellness
- Holistic fitness and wellbeing programs
- Intergenerational programming
- Technology-based engagement opportunities incorporated into daily life
- All-day, flexible dining featuring chef inspired meals, stocked kitchen, and hydration station
- Caring teams educated in current best practices in dementia care
- On-site physician offices, therapy suites, wellness centers, salons and spas
- Family support, education and engagement
- Daily housekeeping
- Mission driven, not-for-profit community