Auburn Hill Senior Living in Midlothian, Virginia

Moving to Memory Care

Schedule a Tour Today! Moving to Memory Care

Memory care communities are specifically designed to meet the needs of people who are living with dementia. Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia are conditions that worsen over time. While dementia is still in the early stages, individuals can remain independent, but as the disease progresses, full-time care may become a requirement.

Forgetfulness is not the only symptom of dementia. Delusions, confusion, and personality changes are also symptoms that occur as the dementia progresses. But how does a caregiver know when they can no longer provide the care that is required? There are several factors which may signal that it is time to move to memory care.

Safety

One of the first signs that it may be time to consider a memory care community is that the caregiver is always worried about the safety of their loved one. This worry can be alleviated by a memory care community because they are designed to meet the specific needs of those living with dementia and they are able to keep the individual safe around the clock.

Along the same lines, if a caregiver is concerned for their own safety it may be time for memory care. As dementia progresses, the personality changes that many people experience can cause confusion and agitation that can then lead to violence against the caregiver. If this happens, the best option may be for the person to move into memory care. These communities know how to help with these emotions because team members are experienced and specially-trained.

Wandering is another big concern for caregivers because when a person with dementia becomes confused or disoriented, it may cause them to wander. This can be extremely dangerous because it doesn’t take much for the person to realize that they are lost and have no idea of the way back home. In extreme temperatures, this would leave them exposed to the elements, putting them in danger. The security that is offered by a memory care community, added to the enclosed outdoor spaces that are common, allows the residents the freedom to wander without getting lost, keeping them safe.

Health

If someone with dementia begins to develop changes in weight, mobility, or other health issues, this can be a sign that more help is necessary. Weight changes can be attributed to either forgetting to eat or eating more frequently because the person is forgetting that they already ate and then they eat again. When moved to a memory care community, the staff will be able to monitor nutrition and wellness, which will help improve physical health.

Caregiver Exhaustion

Exhaustion is a frequent side effect that comes from taking care of someone with dementia. This type of care is physically, mentally, and emotionally tiring. Memory care communities can provide caregivers the rest they need and still keep them involved in important decisions regarding care.

When someone suffering from dementia begins neglecting aspects of their personal lives, like hygiene and finances, memory care can also be a big help. These communities include help with personal care and assistance with activities of daily living that will help them stay on the right track.

It can be a difficult decision for caregivers to move their loved ones to a memory care community, but with assistance and care, the transition can be made easier, and the caregiver will be able to realize that this is really the best choice for everyone involved.

Moving to memory care can help them restore their relationship with their loved one because professionals can handle the difficult aspects of care, freeing caregivers up to simply spend time together and help their loved one do things they enjoy.

Award-Winning Memory Care in Midlothian, VA

Auburn Hill is passionate about providing the very best for residents with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. We are committed to providing dedicated service to our family of residents in a warm, home-like setting.

Come experience the Auburn Hill difference.