Most adults over 65 will end up needing extra care and will move out of their home and into a care facility at some point in their aging process. A big part of choosing the right facility is knowing how to prioritize needs and wants. It is similar to buying a house and making a list of key factors.
It is uncommon for someone to purchase a home without touring it first, and it should be the same choosing a home for an aging loved one. Most facilities offer a tour, but call ahead first to make sure. Set an appointment time as these places are usually very busy and may not have the staffing available for a tour at all times.
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Nursing Homes
Nursing homes are a generic solution to care for the elderly. There is usually a higher bed count and no specific needs to qualify to live here.
Nursing homes typically offer these services:
- ADL assistance
- 24 hour care
- Meal preparation
- Medication management
- Housekeeping
- Transportation
Memory Care
Memory Care is a more specialized approach to care for elderly who suffer from cognitive decline. This can include those with memory loss such as dementia and Alzheimer’s. Those with this type of disease need extra care than what is typically offered in a regular care facility. Memory care facilities should offer all of the same amenities as an assisted living or nursing home, with a few important added things. Idaho memory care is a great resource for this northwestern state. There is a variety of information and resources on their website.
Some of the things a memory care facility should include are:
- Secured building
- Lower staff ratio
- Cognitive based therapies
- Trained staff
It is important not to put a loved one who needs memory care in a nursing home or similar facility that is not equipped to handle their unique set of needs. Likewise, it is important to only put those who really need this special care in a memory care facility because these places are striving to keep staffing ratios low and rooms are typically very limited. These important spaces should be reserved for those who really need them and could benefit from them.
Is Staying Home an Option?
If a loved one is able to remain in their home and receive in-home care or live with family this can sometimes decrease the level of confusion in agitation in those suffering from memory loss. However, it is very taxing for a caregiver to commit to years of 24-hour care that is emotionally and physically exhausting.
Mental Health v Memory Loss
It is worth noting that memory loss and mental health issues are not the same thing. There is not enough research to show a connection between higher rates of memory loss among those who suffer from mental illness. However, some symptoms of memory loss exhibit themselves in a mentally ill type manner. This is normal but does not mean there is a mental illness. Memory loss affects the brain and can cause a variety of behavioral symptoms.
There is Help Available
There are many online resources that caregivers can research. Idaho memory care is a great resource, and has a list of facilities available to those in the Idaho area.