As people age, it is natural for them to slow down, both physically and mentally. However, some issues go beyond the normal signs of aging. Your family member may need memory care. It can be a difficult decision to have a memory care community be your loved one’s next residence.
Before you make this choice, look for certain clues that conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are affecting them.
Your Loved One Is Struggling with Basic Daily Activities
One of the common symptoms of dementia is difficulty in completing simple daily living tasks. If your loved one can no longer use the restroom, take a shower, or get dressed without help, it’s probably time to consider memory care.
Furthermore, people who require memory care might not be able to distinguish when to dress for a certain occasion. The person might not even remember to eat or drink. Personal hygiene can also become a difficult activity.
Your Loved One Displays Signs of Safety Concerns
People with memory conditions will not be able to live on their own. One of the primary reasons why is because they run the risk of encountering safety issues. For example, someone with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease might not know how to properly take medication.
Someone who needs memory care might also frequently forget to turn off the oven or stove after preparing a meal. Falls and other incidents around the house can become more common, leading to injuries. Consider memory care for your family member if any of these situations occur.
The Person’s Behavior Has Changed Significantly
A difference in behavior is a significant sign of dementia. When dementia sets in, the person is likely to get easily agitated or aggressive. Be mindful of the violent behavior your loved one may display. This could include hitting, kicking, or biting.
Your Family Member Is Forgetting Important Events
A person needs memory care when they start to struggle with grasping the passage of time. While forgetting what day it is might not be especially alarming, dementia can cause a person to not know what year it is. If your loved one has these signs or forgets about birthdays or holidays, it’s time to discuss memory care.
Your Loved One Has a Hard Time Communicating
You should also look for signs of dementia in how your family member communicates. U.S. News & World Report pointed out: “If your loved one starts sending texts, emails or leaving voice messages that don’t make any sense, that may be a sign that it’s time for memory care.”
Moreover, you may ask your family member what they were trying to communicate, and they might not recall having sent the message.
Knowing When Memory Care is the Best Option
It can be challenging to figure out or realize when a loved one needs a memory care community. Fortunately, there are certain signs you can look out for.
Pay close attention to these signs so you know whether to take the next steps for your loved one. Memory care is the right decision when your family member can no longer care for themselves.
Grand Brook Memory Care has been managing memory care communities for over two decades. To learn more about our specially designed memory care communities in North Texas, Indiana, Michigan, or Arkansas, please contact us today.
