Memory Care: What To Do When Your Loved One's Memory Drastically Declines
If your elderly loved one no longer recognizes your face or remembers where different places are in your home, you may feel at a lost of what to do about their declining health. People who suffer from advanced Alzheimer's disease, dementia, or another memory-related condition require specialized care and treatment. If your home isn't equipped to handle your loved one's memory problems, it can potentially affect their health and life. You can make your home temporarily safe for your loved one until you seek additional help.
Protect Your Loved One From Wandering
Your loved one's declining memory can affect how well they get around your home, especially at night. If your loved wakes up in the middle of the night seeking a snack or bathroom break, they may mistake the front door in your living room for the kitchen or bathroom door. The person may open the door, walk through it, and leave the home. Wandering is one of the biggest problems families and caregivers face with their charges.
Wandering can potentially lead to many issues, including falls. Depending on your elderly charge's physical health, they can experience bone fractures, contusions, and other injuries during a fall. Your loved one may have problems recovering from their injuries.
To prevent incidences, place secure locks on your front door and all other entrances leading to the outdoors. You can also place large signs on the walls in your home. The signs may be simple arrows or pictures directing your loved one to the bathroom or kitchen.
Once you make your home safer for your loved one, seek memory care help, such as from Alta Ridge Communities.
Obtain Memory Care Help
Your loved one may benefit from memory care services. Memory care services provides the necessary care your loved one needs at all stages of their dementia or Alzheimer's disease. Your elderly family member may receive a wide range of services that range from medication assistance to therapeutic care.
Your family member may also participate in different activities designed to stimulate their mind and spirit. Some memory care centers offer music, art, and other services. If your loved one previously enjoyed a hobby like music or art, they may benefit from the services.
It's important that you consider all of the options regarding your loved one's care. If you have concerns about placing your loved one in memory care, contact a specialist right away. Even if you find ways to make your home safer, you may need help with their overall care.
