Protecting an Elderly Loved One

Senior Care For Patients With Dementia

by Margie Adams

If you have a parent, spouse, or other loved one who is showing signs of dementia, you may fear they cannot take care of themselves safely. If so, you need to understand the different types of care options available for patients with memory problems. Check out these three questions that will help you understand more about memory care for patients with dementia.

Is In-Home Care an Option?

You may not want to send your loved one to a memory care facility, especially if their dementia is just beginning and they can still do many things on their own still. Luckily, in-home care is an option. The benefit of in-home care is that patients get to stay in the comfort of their home. This is good for patients with memory problems because changes in location or routine can confuse them and frustrate them.

Unfortunately for patients with advanced dementia, it may not be a right option for them because they need more attention. On top of that, in-home care is expensive. In fact, you can expect to pay about $2000 more a month than if your loved one was in a care facility. On top of that, insurance doesn't typically cover the cost of in-home care, and if they do, it isn't much. On the other hand, insurance or government assistance may pay for all or some of the cost of a facility.

What Types of Facilities Are Available?

There are many types of facilities available to help your loved one. An assisted living facility is for more functional seniors. They may need help with some tasks like getting dressed and cooking, but they can typically care for themselves. In these facilities, residents often have their own apartments but can get help whenever they need. Some have kitchens in the apartments, but there is still usually meal service provided in case residents can't or don't want to cook.

A nursing home is for patients who are not as functional. These residents need more attention and may not be able to do most things on their own, including eating. For patients with advanced Alzheimer's or dementia, an Alzheimer's special care unit is best. These places only have patients with memory problems, so staff can care for them properly. They get the most attention to keep them safe and happy.

What Do Facilities Provide Patients?

You may feel guilty "dumping" your loved on in a facility, but they have come a long way, and residents are well cared for. There are state regulations that require these facilities to offer proper care, such as memory care, assisted living, medical monitoring and help with daily activities. These facilities are trained and staffed to properly care for elderly people, including those with memory problems.

Typically, when you send your loved one to a memory care facility, they have access to all the healthcare they need, such as emergency call systems. On top of that, the facilities provide programs to improve well-being, such as exercise, social activities and outings. They are also provided housekeeping, meals, and transportation. Of course, you still have the right to handle medical care, food, transportation, etc., for your loved one, but it is there if you are unable to provide help.

If your loved one is showing signs of memory problems, you need to take action now to keep them healthy. For more information about what a memory care facility can do for your loved one, contact one in your area today. Schedule a consultation, and make sure you bring your loved one along to ensure they feel comfortable in their potential new home. 

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