When an elderly loved one develops dementia, caring for them can be an intensely emotional and stressful experience. Most people may not be equipped with the time, resources, or energy to give their senior family member the proper care required when suffering from illnesses like dementia. However, there are options available that can help families go through this difficult change. Memory care and dementia services help support a healthy lifestyle in seniors who need specialized attention. Buckner offers memory care for seniors, providing them with the proper care they need.
Buckner offers the full continuum of care for residents with dementia, giving their families peace of mind and confidence that they will receive the support and care that they need. Our comfortable, well-appointed facilities boast a safe and secure setting that allows seniors to fully enjoy their retirement years. If you or a loved one is in need of memory care services, contact us at 214.227.7182 today to learn more about how we can help.
What You Need to Know About Memory Care and Dementia
Dementia is a general term for the loss of cognitive function that affects someone’s ability to think, remember, or make decisions. While it is more common in the elderly, it is not a normal part of aging. Depending on the severity of their symptoms, elderly adults with dementia may not be safe living by themselves. In cases such as these, their caregivers should consider whether or not they would need additional support.
Memory care is specifically designed for older adults diagnosed with dementia. Healthcare providers in memory care programs are trained to handle the unique issues that often come up as a result of dementia. Memory care services may be offered based on varying levels of required support:
- Daily support – If a senior with dementia can still effectively take care of themself and their needs, they may only require a low level of care. This can include meal deliveries, transportation services, or even short-term respite care.
- Long-term home care – If they are having difficulty living by themselves, it may be better for someone to give round-the-clock care and supervision. This level of service focuses on assisting with everyday living activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. The caregiver can also give supervision to ensure the elderly adult’s safety. This type of service can be provided by a family member or by a healthcare professional.
- Residential care – If it is no longer feasible for a senior with dementia to stay at home due to medical or safety concerns, they may move into a senior living facility that specializes in memory care. These communities provide a safe, secure environment that allows residents to live meaningful lives regardless of their cognitive ability.
- Hospice care – This level of service provides end-of-life care and comfort to senior adults with dementia and their families.
When Is It Time for Residential Senior Memory Care for Dementia
Transitioning into a residential care facility may be a difficult decision to make. However, the safety of their elderly loved ones must be the biggest factor for deciding whether it is time for memory care. If caregivers are struggling to meet the senior’s physical needs, and if the caregiver’s mental and physical health are at risk, it may be time to consider residential care.
If someone is uncertain about moving their loved one with dementia into a residential memory care facility, they can ask themselves the following questions:
- Does my loved one show a change in their mood or demeanor, like increased anxiety, irritability, or anger?
- Does my loved one need personal hygiene help and cannot care for themselves?
- Does my loved one need help nourishing themselves? Are they losing weight due to forgetting or being unable to eat?
- Does my loved one need ongoing medical attention that is difficult to provide at home?
- Does my loved one get lost or wander around frequently?
- Does my loved one require 24/7 supervision?
- Am I able to provide what my loved one needs to be safe and healthy?
Buckner Offers Dementia and Memory Care Services in Texas
At Buckner, we provide families with peace of mind. Our facilities provide a safe, fun, and relaxing environment for seniors to lead vibrant and enjoyable lives. Our memory care and dementia services are designed to help residents and their families through their journey with dementia with love and compassion. Contact us at 214.227.7182 today to learn more about what we can offer.