As we age, we become more prone to memory-related problems and diseases such as dementia. When this happens, it becomes difficult for individuals to take care of themselves as they used to. When dementia is the diagnosis specialized care is needed.
This is where memory care homes come in. A memory care home is a specialized care facility designed to provide assistance and support to seniors with memory-related conditions. Memory care homes provide a residential setting. This gives the feel and appearance of living in a home. In this post, we will discuss what a memory care home is, how it differs from assisted living and long-term care, and the importance of choosing the right memory care home.
1. What is a memory care home?
A memory care home is a specialized care facility that provides 24/7 assistance and support to seniors with memory-related conditions such as Alzheimer's or dementia. These homes are designed to provide a safe and secure environment for seniors to live in, with trained staff members who are well-equipped in providing specialized care for memory-related conditions.
In Texas, Memory Care Homes are licensed as assisted living with a special certification for Alzheimer's Care. In order to receive the Alzheimer's Certified designation a home must follow certain guidelines. The staff must have additional training in dementia care. This training must be ongoing. Additionally, the home must be secured to ensure residents are not able to wander away.
A memory care home will care for no more than 16 residents at a time. This allows the residents to be closely monitored and engaged.
2. How does memory care differ from assisted living?
Assisted living facilities are designed to provide assistance to seniors who need help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and taking medication. These seniors may or may not have cognitive challenges. There are large assisted living facilities and small assisted living homes.
Residents who have mild cognitive challenges may do okay in a small assisted living home. But when dementia becomes evident other residents may push away from them. Additionally, an assisted living home may not provide a safe environment for someone who is prone to wandering. This is the time for memory care.
Memory care homes, on the other hand, are specifically designed to provide care for seniors with memory-related conditions. The homes are designed to feel comfortable like when they lived in their own home. Activities are designed for residents with dementia. Memory care homes have security measures in place to prevent wandering, and staff members are trained to provide specialized care for memory-related conditions.
3. How does memory care differ from long-term care?
Long-term care is often associated with nursing homes. It is designed to provide ongoing assistance and support to seniors who require help with daily activities due to physical or cognitive impairments. The problem with most nursing homes in Texas is the lack of staff to care for someone with dementia. Caregivers in these facilities are often shorthanded. They may be responsible for the care of 10 or more residents at one time. And the residents may have a variety of physical and mental needs.
While memory care homes also provide ongoing assistance, they are specifically designed for seniors with memory-related conditions. Additionally, the care staff typically cares for on 4 or 5 residents per caregiver. Memory care homes have specialized programs and activities designed to stimulate cognitive function and provide mental stimulation for residents.
Conclusion
Choosing the right memory care home is crucial for seniors with memory-related conditions. Memory care homes provide specialized care and support for seniors with memory-related conditions, which cannot be found in traditional assisted living or long-term care facilities. It is important to take the time to research and visit different memory care homes to find the right fit for your loved one's needs.
In honor of our founder Pat Mack, we are carrying on the tradition of caring for our residents in "The Light Heart Way"
Light Heart Memory Care homes are specially designed for 8 residents. This gives us the ability to give personalized care to each and every resident.
Contact us to learn more about Light Heart Memory Care, or book a free consultation.
Phone: 281.282.0770 Email: office@lightheartmemorycare.com