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All About Seniors: The Most Common Signs of Dementia

By August 11, 2021October 4th, 2021No Comments
blog about the signs of dementia

It can be difficult as loved ones or individuals begin to recognize signs of memory loss. It is one thing to forget things occassionally, but it can be especially concerning when consistent memory loss becomes an everyday occurrence. As we age, the risk of dementia increases. Once we reach the age of sixty-five the risk of developing Alzheimer’s or vascular dementia doubles every five years.

Unfortunately, Alzheimer’s, which is a form of dementia is an all-too-common medical condition. There are over 6 million Americans that live with Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s and dementia take more lives than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined.

What is dementia?

Dementia is the loss of one’s cognitive functioning. A person is unable to remember and think as clearly, and it becomes difficult to navigate properly throughout the day. Dementia is a disease and is not a normal part of aging. Dementia can impact how a person participates in their daily activities, recalls information, their emotional state, and often results in them needing assistance from others.

What are the Most Common Signs of Dementia?

The signs of dementia can range dependent on the progression of the disease. If an individual starts to exhibit some of these symptoms on a regular basis, then it is important to speak with a physician. There are memory care providers that can help support the process through guidance, tools, and direction. Common symptoms of dementia may include:

  • Confusion and memory loss
  • Wandering and getting lost in a place that should be familiar
  • Repeating the same question
  • Losing balance
  • Mobility issues
  • Paranoia and hallucinations
  • Lost of interest in normal daily activities
  • Trouble keeping up with personal hygiene

There are several different types of dementia. Some different forms of dementia include Alzheimer’s, Lewy Body Dementia, Vascular Dementia, Parkinson’s Disease Dementia and Frontotemporal Dementia.

Often, families need to make the decision to have their loved one be cared for in a Memory Care home. It can difficult to know who to turn to and trust. Knowing what to look for in a Memory Care provider is essential, so that your loved one receives the guidance, help, and care that they deserve.

What Should People Look for In a Memory Care Provider?

Choosing the right Memory Care Provider is vital. Helping a loved one find a Memory Care facility where they feel comfortable, loved, and can engage in personal interests will make all the difference. When searching for a Memory Care home, we recommend that you look at:

  • Staffing Ratios
    • How many staff members are there compared to the number of residents? The higher the staffing ratio, the better. If your loved one needs assistance, are they able to care for them quickly? It is important that the appropriate number of staff are readily available to tend to your loved one’s needs.
  • Inviting and fully furnished room
    • It is important that your loved one feels comfortable, as this is their home. An inviting, fully furnished room is essential. Ensure that the room is well kept, has a private bathroom, temperature control, comfortable bed, and linens.
  • Delicious and Nutritious Meals
    • Do they provide home-cooked meals and tailor to special dietary needs? It is essential that the food that is being served not only looks and tastes good but is full of health-promoting nutrients.
  • Engaging Activities
    • Do they have a dedicated activities director that helps the residents participate in engaging, life-enriching activities? It is one thing to participate in an activity. It is another thing to participate in one that genuinely interests your loved one and is fitting for their capabilities and needs. Find out if the activities that are offered can be tailored to your loved one.
  • Accessible Administrator
    • Is the Administrator readily accessible to answer your questions or address needs? It is important that you can discuss needs or concerns quickly and not have to wait several days before gaining a response. Assess whether you can easily communicate with the Administrator, and how likely they will be able to address you and your loved one’s needs.
  • Residents are Content and Well Groomed
    • Are the residents happy and look well cared for? It is crucial that your loved one receives the attention, care, and respect that they deserve. Observing the residents at the facility you are visiting will give you a good idea as to how attentive the staff are and the type of care that is being provided.
  • Inviting and Calm Atmosphere
    • Does the atmosphere feel right, and does it feel like home? From the moment that you drive up to the assisted living or memory care home, what type of a feeling do you get? Does it feel welcoming, light, and portray an encouraging atmosphere? When you walk up to the door and enter the building, does it give you a positive impression? Are you warmly greeted by the staff? An inviting, calm, and welcoming atmosphere is important when choosing the right assisted living or memory care home for your loved one.
  • Great Survey Outcomes
    • Does the facility have good survey outcomes, and have they been awarded local and national quality awards? When deciding which memory care home to select, investigate the facility’s survey outcomes. Look at their survey history and determine whether there have been positive or negative outcomes.

These are just a few questions to ask when searching for the perfect Memory Care Home.

Choose The Cottages Assisted Living and Memory Care

The Cottages Senior Living will provide the best environment for your loved one. Their small, home-like atmosphere and high staff-to-resident ratio helps ensure that the residents are well cared for and their needs are addressed. The Cottages Assisted Living and Memory Care homes only have a maximum of 16 residents per home, which enables our staff to give more personalized care. The home-cooked meals not only follow dietary guidelines but are delicious and nutritious. The activities are tailored to the residents’ wants and desires, creating life-enriching moments. The Administrator has an open-door policy and is never too busy to meet with family or answer questions. The home and atmosphere feel calm, happy, and look like a home. The Cottages are secure but never feel like an institution or hotel. The Cottages Assisted Living and Memory Care has received numerous national and state quality awards for their well-run homes, exuding superior care.

If you are looking for an exceptional Assisted Living or Memory Care Home, look no further. Call The Cottages today to schedule a tour or speak with one of our experts! (208) 475-1805.

 

References

Facts and Figures. (2021). Retrieved 10 August 2021, from https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/facts-figures

Types of Dementia. (2021). Retrieved 10 August 2021, from https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia/types-of-dementia

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