If you’re caring for someone with Alzheimer’s, you most likely have experienced the progressiveness of the disease. While everyone with a cognitive illness may respond differently, one constant is that the needed level of care will continue to increase.
At some point, it’s not uncommon for many families to discover that they’re no longer able to continue care at home – and still maintain their loved one’s quality of life. Not wanting to compromise, the search for alternatives soon begins.
In a perfect world, the first choice would be discussing with them whether living at home is still the best place. Don’t assume the answer would always be yes. They may feel like a burden on their family’s lives.
But of course, often these conversations aren’t possible. In that case, reflect on what kind of life you believe they would want. You can also consider what your choice would be if you were in a similar situation and they were left to make the decision.
Although Alzheimer’s can affect each person differently, there are similar characteristics that signal the illness is escalating. It might be time to consider moving your loved one into a specialized residential community if you’re beginning to see these shifts:
If you’re beginning the search for residential care, you may initially find the options overwhelming or be unsure which could provide the best support for your loved one. The following is a summary of some of the choices:
For those living independently, these communities offer limited help, such as medication management, dining programs, assistance with tasks of daily living and a choice of on-site activities.
Long-term care is generally for those who require oversight and assistance 24/7, typically due to issues of frailty, physical conditions or chronic illnesses.
These communities solely provide memory care, with no integration with other senior living options. The environment and care is designed to support those living with a dementia diagnosis.
These communities also provide specialized treatment and support for those living with dementia or Alzheimer’s but it occurs in a community that offers interaction with other levels of care.
Depending on your loved one’s particular needs, you’ll likely find the best fit is with those who specialize in cognitive illnesses. Stand-alone and Memory Support Assisted Living communities both provide a staff specially trained to meet the needs of those living with Alzheimer’s. Their buildings and programs are designed specifically for this type of care.
While you may like the idea of a community-focused solely on memory care as its business, there is some discussion of the possible downside of segregating residents based on their illness.
Living as part of a bigger community, while still receiving specialized memory care and support is the other choice. It may better allow the person to continue to live a fully engaged life and not be defined by their condition.
For families making these decisions, it’s something you may wish to consider. Although it may also come down to your personal preference or what is available in your area.
Regardless of whether your loved one will reside in a stand-alone or memory supported assisted living community, you’ll want to ensure your choice offers the following:
We take a whole-person approach to help our residents and their families feel fully empowered. Our individual care plans ensure that your loved one will be supported in ways that promote meaningful connections and experiences.
Our highly trained team is educated on the best practices of dementia care. Our memory care is designed to offer a sense of home, as well as security and safety. We also encourage social integration with our greater Ingleside community as we understand that each of our residents is much more than a diagnosis.
Call (202) 905-0018 if you have any questions or would like to schedule a personalized virtual tour today.