What’s Memory Care?

When aging parents are living with Alzheimer’s, or another form of dementia, it’s common for families to care for their mom or dad at home as long as possible. But, if the relationship becomes strained, if caregivers are experiencing burnout, or if a senior is not safe or thriving, it may be time to consider senior living with Memory Care.

8 signs it may be time for Memory Care

  • Safety
    If your parent is living at home, can you take precautions in every room to reduce the risk of harm or injury?
  • Wandering
    Is your loved one wandering during the day or night? At Amica, staff are skilled at reassuring and redirecting residents trying to leave the building.
  • Eating
    A person with dementia can quickly change their eating habits. How well is your parent eating? Would it help to have chef-prepared meals in a dedicated dining room?
  • Socializing
    What kind of social opportunities are being offered? Social interaction is important for slowing cognitive decline.
  • Hygiene
    How is your parent managing basic grooming (brushing teeth, bathing, dressing, et cetera)?
  • Home care services
    If living alone, does your parent have home care? If you’ve got four daily hours of home care, are you comfortable having your mom be alone for 20 hours a day?
  • Family
    How is dementia impacting your family? Moving to a residence that offers Alzheimer’s care can help a loved one and their caregivers.
  • Diagnosis
    “Many people wait until they’re in crisis before moving to Memory Care,” says Dr. Palmer, Amica’s national director of cognitive well-being. “Having your parent cognitively involved in the process allows them to play a part in decision-making and increases the likelihood they will have the cognitive resources to adapt to their new environment.”

3 tips to help your parent experiencing dementia or Alzheimer’s