Providing Memory Care requires specialized activities and programs to enhance the physical, mental, and emotional quality of life of the person living with Memory Loss. The care should be personalized to meet the needs of the person while preserving their dignity and independence, wherever possible.
Understanding Dementia and its Challenges
When a person is diagnosed with dementia, it refers to a series of symptoms that impede cognitive function of the memory, communication, reasoning, concentration, and/or perception. Dementia is a broad term for mild, moderate, and severe conditions that impact certain areas of the brain that have sustained injury, damage, or destruction.
Dementia can be seen in the form of Memory Loss and regression in the ability to walk, speak, and/or swallow. It can cause irritability, hopelessness, confusion, severe mood swings, and detachment from the world.
The impact of dementia on care partners can cause anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. The emotional and physical toll of caring for a person with Memory Loss can be heavy and it could affect a care partner’s own health and well-being.
Introducing Boutique Memory Care
Thankfully, there are specialized environments to help those care partners and the person living with Memory Loss known as Memory Care settings. Unlike the traditional Long Term Care or general retirement homes, these surroundings are physically designed with the safety, ease of use and security of the person living with Memory Loss in mind.
Professionally trained individuals provide compassionate and supportive care on a 24/7 basis with medical and social therapy as the dementia symptoms progress. Programs and activities are personalized in respect to the unique needs of each individual to enhance their quality of life.
Creating a Supportive Environment
A supportive environment is the goal of a Memory Care program. The setting requires particular planning and design to offer a comfortable, safe, and familiar environment for the person living with Memory Loss. The aim is to create an easy-to-navigate area with little to no risk for injury and/or confusion. This may involve use of non-slip floors, high contrasting colours, circular halls, and non-reflective flooring and surfaces.
As sensory stimulation plays a major role in Memory Loss, the environment should offer a calm and serene atmosphere with controlled noise and visual stimulus.
Building Meaningful Connections
Due to the delicate nature of dementia and Memory Loss, Memory Care must meet the unique and individual needs of each person. From physical support to emotional support, a person-centred care approach is warranted.
A Memory Care setting should have a small staff-to-resident ratio to ensure each Member receives the best care. A person with Memory Loss may require assistance with grooming activities, bathing, eating, safety monitoring and/or constant social encouragement.
Tailored Activities and Programs
Memory Care settings need to offer individualized activities and programs that meet the needs, likes, and abilities of the person living with Memory Loss. Each program should encourage involvement in social settings while providing a form of therapy to enhance the quality of life of the Member.
These programs can involve music, art, cognitive games, physical recreation, or group participation activities. By focusing on the relationship between the person living with Memory Loss and the trust built with Team Members, an individual can gain self-confidence, independence, and a sense of comfort in their new surroundings.
Collaboration with Families and Care Partners
Whether the person living with Memory Loss requires short-term or long-term care in a Memory Care setting, it is important for families and care partners to form a good relationship with Team Members. A collaborative approach can benefit everyone involved.
Regular visits, phone calls, and support from family members can enhance and improve their loved one’s physical, mental, and emotional state. Care partners can receive respite support, education, advocacy, and resources to assist in maintaining a relationship with the person living with Memory Loss.
Team Members Training and Expertise
Excellence in care and support would not be possible without the expertise and training of those who work as Team Members within Memory Care environments. These professionals have knowledge of Memory Loss and other symptoms of dementia to provide empathic and compassionate care.
Ongoing training and education in the physical and emotional care for a person living with Memory Loss involves understanding changing behaviour patterns as the symptoms progress. Having onsite access to personal support workers, nurses, social workers, recreational therapists, and nutritionists is crucial to the quality of life of Members.
Testimonials and Success Stories
Keisha Clarke
“My experience with the Memory & Company day program has been nothing short of exceptional – my mother is always excited and looks forward to attending each week. The facility itself is well-designed, providing a comfortable and secure setting. The staff’s expertise and dedication in tailoring activities to each individual’s needs and abilities truly impressed me. The range of activities, from art therapy and music sessions to memory-enhancing games, showcases the program’s comprehensive approach to cognitive stimulation. I highly recommend the day program to anyone seeking compassionate care for their loved ones.”
Discover Compassionate Memory Care at Memory & Company
For compassionate “Memory Care near me”, visit the world’s first Respite Hotel and Premium Day Program at Memory & Company. With locations in Markham and Oakville, we offer short-term and long-term open-ended Respite Care, and Respite Care for Alzheimer’s care partners.
We provide personalized care plans based on the ever-changing needs of those living with Memory Loss through our unique programs and activities. Our safe and secure environments offer peace of mind for care partners and families.
Call us today at (905) 888-8808 to schedule a guided tour of our Memory Care environments in Oakville or Markham.
