Making the decision to put a loved one in a memory care community is never easy, but it can be crucial for their wellbeing and sense of belonging. Finding support for your relative can relieve the burden on family members and improve relationships.
If you’re unsure whether full-time memory care is right for your senior relative, read on for some helpful advice. We’ll discuss the signs that indicate a need for full-time care, how to tell if your loved one is ready for a new environment, and what to look for when choosing a facility in Johnson City, Tennessee.
What are the signs that a senior may need full-time memory care?
At what point do dementia patients need 24-hour care? Here are some signs that indicate full-time care may be necessary:
- If your loved one is experiencing serious memory loss or confusion.
- If they are at risk of wandering and getting lost.
- If they are at risk of falling or hurting themselves.
One of the main indicators that a senior may need full-time memory care is if they have difficulty with activities of daily living (ADLs). This can include things like bathing, dressing, using the restroom, and eating.
If your loved one is struggling to perform these tasks independently, it may be time to consider a facility that can provide them with around-the-clock assistance.
According to the National Center for Assisted Living, 49 percent of senior living residents in Tennessee live with some form of dementia. Needing daily help is not uncommon for older adults:
- 61 percent require bathing assistance
- 55 percent need walking assistance
- 47 percent need help getting dressed
- 21 percent need assistance with bed transferring
- 17 percent need assistance eating meals
Long-term senior care facilities can help when providing home care becomes too overwhelming.
How can families tell if their loved one is ready for a memory care facility?
Another sign that your loved one may benefit from full-time memory care is if they are experiencing changes in their mood or behavior. This can include anything from becoming more withdrawn and isolated to exhibiting signs of aggression. Other indicators include:
- Forgetfulness of names, places, and objects
- Confusion of time and date
- Difficulty communicating and trouble finding words
- Missing appointments or events
- Withdrawing from appointments or events
- Wandering
If you’ve noticed a marked change in your loved one’s personality, it’s important to talk to their doctor about whether Alzheimer’s or dementia care might be a good option. They can help you determine whether the changes are normal for their age or if they’re indicative of a more serious condition.
What are some of the benefits of long-term dementia care for seniors and their families?
There are many benefits to full-time memory care for both seniors and their families. One of the biggest advantages is that seniors will have access to 24-hour assistance from skilled caregivers. This can provide peace of mind for families who may not be able to provide constant care themselves.
Additionally, memory care facilities often offer a variety of activities and programs designed to keep residents engaged and mentally stimulated. This can help improve the quality of life for seniors living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.
Social stimulation and being involved in their community can do wonders for mood and confidence.
How does one find a full-time memory care facility that meets the needs of their loved one?
If you’re considering full-time memory care for your loved one, the first step is to research different facilities in your area. Nursing homes are usually best for seniors living with disabling chronic conditions or recovering from an injury or procedure. Look for communities offering specific care for people with Alzheimer’s and dementia.
When you’re looking at potential dementia care homes, be sure to tour the facility and meet with staff members. It’s also important to find out what type of care is offered and whether it meets the specific needs of your loved one. With a little bit of research, you can find a memory care community that will provide your loved one with the support they need to live a happy and healthy life.
If you or someone you know is considering finding care, the Alzheimer’s Association offers a helpful checklist of things to look for when touring facilities.
Making the decision to move a loved one into full-time memory care can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By keeping an eye out for the signs that indicate a need for assistance and doing your research, you can find the perfect facility for your loved one. With the right level of care, they can continue to enjoy life despite memory loss.
What is the average cost of full-time memory care, and how do different facilities compare in price?
The cost of full-time memory care varies depending on the facility and location. Average prices in Tennessee range from $3,000 to $6,000 per month. It’s important to compare pricing between different facilities in your area to find the best value for your loved one.
Some communities offer assisted living and memory care as an option to age in place. The average cost of assisted living in Johnson City is $4,100 per month. Care for those with Alzheimer’s and dementia is usually more intensive–resulting in a higher cost.
When choosing a memory care community, it’s also important to consider the level of care and services offered. Make sure to tour each facility in person to get a feel for whether the value and service would be a good fit for your loved one.
Memory Care: Johnson City, TN
There may be better options for Alzheimer’s care if you’re searching the web for nursing homes in Johnson City, TN. Dominion Senior Living of Johnson City provides senior living solutions for people in various stages of many types of dementia.
Our trained expert caregivers enrich the lives of residents with purposeful activities, personal care, and enriching friendships. We offer round-the-clock support to our residents and work closely with families to design a care plan tailored to the needs of your loved one.
In addition to dementia-centered health care, Dominion of Johnson City provides:
- ADLs assistance
- Medication administration
- On-site rehabilitation
- Chef-prepared meals
- Worship services
- Transportation
- Individualized activities
- Social events and entertainment
Discover Relief: Dominion of Johnson City Memory Care
Contact us if you’re considering full-time memory care for your senior relative. The decision is never easy, but it’s important to do what’s best for your loved one. They can live a meaningful life and experience relief with the right community and support system.
