Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease is a journey filled with challenges and emotional strain. Alzheimer’s is a progressive condition that can eventually necessitate specialized care beyond what can be provided at home. In such cases, transitioning to a nursing home with skilled nursing memory care services may become a crucial step in ensuring the safety, well-being, and quality of life for your loved one. Let’s explore the signs and factors that can indicate your loved one may need specialized care.
Frequent Safety Concerns
Alzheimer’s disease often brings about memory loss and disorientation, leading to an increased risk of accidents. If your loved one exhibits a pattern of wandering, falling, leaving stoves on, or forgetting to lock doors, it may be time to consider skilled memory care. Shaker Place is designed with safety in mind, offering secure environments that minimize potential hazards.
Decline in Personal Hygiene
As Alzheimer’s progresses, individuals may struggle with personal hygiene tasks, such as bathing, dressing, and grooming. Specialized staff are trained to assist residents with their daily routines, preserving their dignity while ensuring proper hygiene.
Weight Loss and Poor Nutrition
Alzheimer’s can hinder one’s ability to prepare and consume meals adequately. Weight loss and malnutrition become concerns in such cases. In the later stages of Alzheimer’s, individuals may have difficulty swallowing, a condition known as dysphagia. This can make it challenging for them to eat solid foods, increasing the risk of choking. Memory care facilities provide carefully planned meal options and trained caregivers to ensure that residents receive proper nutrition, hydration, and are observed by staff.
Agitation and Aggression
Behavioral changes, including agitation, aggression, or sundowning, are common in Alzheimer’s patients. Our team of memory care professionals are equipped to address these behaviors with patience and specialized interventions, helping residents manage their symptoms and maintain a sense of peace and calm.
Increasing Social Isolation
Alzheimer’s often leads to social withdrawal, causing individuals to feel increasingly isolated. Our community offers a structured environment with social activities and interaction opportunities, fostering engagement and mental stimulation.
Decline in Cognitive Function
Noticeable declines in cognitive function, such as the inability to recognize loved ones or frequent disorientation, may signal the need for a memory care facility. Our team caters to individuals with varying degrees of cognitive decline and provides appropriate support.
Caregiver Burnout
The demands of caregiving for a loved one with Alzheimer’s can take a toll on family members. Caregiver burnout is a clear sign that it may be time to seek professional help through memory care services. Placing your loved one in Shaker Place ensures they receive the care they need while allowing you to focus on your own well-being.
Frequent Hospitalizations
Recurring hospitalizations due to complications related to Alzheimer’s, such as infections, falls, or medication mismanagement, may indicate that your loved one requires more comprehensive care and monitoring.
Medication Management Challenges
Managing multiple medications accurately can become increasingly challenging for individuals with Alzheimer’s. Memory care professionals are trained to administer medications correctly, reducing the risk of adverse events.
Decline in Overall Quality of Life
Ultimately, the decision to transition to a memory care facility should prioritize your loved one’s overall quality of life. If their current living situation compromises their safety, well-being, and happiness, it may be time to explore alternative care options that can provide a higher level of support and specialized care.
Learn More About Shaker Place!
Deciding to move a loved one with Alzheimer’s to a nursing home with skilled nursing memory care services is a difficult decision. However, recognizing the signs that it’s the right choice can lead to improved safety, better care, and enhanced quality of life for your loved one. It’s crucial to consult with healthcare professionals, family members, and of course your loved one to make an informed decision that ensures their well-being and comfort in the face of this challenging disease. Remember that the ultimate goal is to provide the best possible care for your loved one as their Alzheimer’s progresses.
At Shaker Place, our memory wing is under constant supervision 24 hours a day, providing an environment where residents can enjoy maximum freedom and independence within a secure and controlled space. Our dedicated dining area and enclosed courtyard further contribute to this sense of security. Our caregivers, specially trained in dementia care, excel in fostering a sense of belonging and purpose among our residents. This approach aids in preserving their identities and self-awareness. We actively support the utilization of our residents’ life skills and unique talents, encouraging them to continue engaging in meaningful activities that bring them joy and fulfillment. Learn more about our memory care services today!