Memory Care is a delicate subject to discuss with your loved ones. Thanks to the internet and various social media platforms, there is a vast amount of information to access. This can be both a blessing and a curse, depending on whether you are able to decipher the myths from the facts.
Living with Memory Loss can be a daunting journey for both the person living with Memory Loss and the care partner(s). The objective of this article is to debunk the myths associated with Memory Care, especially before any major life changes are decided.
Myth #1: You or Your Loved One Will Lose Independence and Autonomy
Memory Care environments (homes) are designed to help those living with Memory Loss to be as independent as physically and mentally possible. The idea that these environments create a negative experience is antiquated and may stem from a time when there wasn’t much research or knowledge about the importance of Memory Care.
Today, thanks to continuing education, people living with Memory Loss are cared for on an individual basis. This allows for personalized care so that the person may continue to experience life with dignity and receive assistance as needed. Team Members are specially trained to encourage self-care when possible. In most cases, those living with Memory Loss retain, and may regain, independence and confidence with the help of Memory Care facilities.
Myth #2: People Living in Memory Care Home Will Have No Interaction
As with lack of independence, years ago many nursing home environments saw those living with Memory Loss left alone in a room, ward, or a common area for hours upon end. Many people spent their time staring out a window or watching television shows.
With modern Memory Care environments, there are daily and weekly activities scheduled to entertain those living with Memory Loss. These programs are designed to improve Memory Loss through physical fitness, socialization, arts & crafts, and therapy with music, art, and animals. Engagement and participation are the key focus goals of Memory Care environments.
Myth #3: All Memory Care Communities Are the Same
The truth is that not all Memory Care environments are the same. There are places that appear to offer programs designed for those living with Memory Loss. These environments may provide limited care and agendas that may or may not help to improve Memory Loss.
This is why it is important to investigate every Memory Care environment to ensure your loved one will receive the personal care they require. Having hands-on activities and programs that stimulate and encourage those living with Memory Loss can be the best support.
Myth #4: Memory Care Costs a Lot of Money
A common myth pertaining to Memory Care is the extensive cost of the living arrangements. As with most assisted living communities, there is a fee for board, meals, specialized care, and other services. Each place has its own set costs and services.
In comparison, there is little difference in the cost for a professional living arrangement and the cost for care in-home. Whether there is a need to hire a care partner(s) or for a family member to leave a job to stay home, the costs can quickly add up. If the person living with Memory Loss requires physical assisted devices, these too can increase a care budget.
Myth #5: You or Your Loved One’s Health Will Decline
Moving to a Memory Care environment (facility) is a good thing for those living with Memory Loss; it’s not a means to an end. In this type of atmosphere, the focus is on the physical, mental, and social well-being of the person.
From healthy meals and snacks to 24-hour nursing care, a Memory Care home can help support and improve you or your loved one’s health. The custom programs are directed at slowing Memory Loss, improving your physical state, and retaining independence.
Myth #6: You or Your Loved One Will Receive Better Care at Home
In-home Memory Care can be a well-received commitment. The health condition of a person living with Memory Loss extends into to their cognitive and physical health. All of the well-meaning attention, love, and support a loved one can give will eventually need to be replaced by around-the-clock care and medical attention.
Too many times, providing care to someone living with Memory Loss, as their needs progress, has a physical and emotional toll on the care partner and can be socially isolating to the person living with Memory Loss. By spending time focused on the person, their own health is at risk. Physical injuries, stress, and burnout can cause the care partner to also need medical attention.
Myth #7: Memory Care Is Dull and Cold
The myth that Memory Care is associated with cold, dark, and dull atmospheres, again, may stem from the notion that those living with Memory Loss are best treated at nursing homes. This is not true. A Memory Care environment is physically designed with the person living with Memory Loss in mind.
Most communities are styled with comfortable home furnishings, adequate lighting options, colour-coordinated walls, and non-slip floors. Security, safety, social experiences, and mood-boosting amenities are all important in a Memory Care environment.
Myth #8: Memory Care Sedates Residents
Before Memory Loss was medically accepted as a physical, mental, and emotional condition, those living with Memory Loss were sedated and placed in institutions. Thankfully, this is no longer the case. People living with Memory Loss now receive the treatment, and respect, they deserve, need, and desire.
It should be noted that those living with Memory Loss may be prescribed medications by their doctor that may cause side effects of drowsiness. These medications are monitored by licensed nurses with the support of their physician. Memory Care environments work to find alternative solutions to medications, but if necessary, work to ensure the appropriate amount of medication is used to maintain quality of life.
Contact Memory & Company
For a VIP treatment and a home-like atmosphere, visit the specialized community at Memory & Company. We offer short– and long-term accommodations, a Premium Day Program, and a safe, guilt-free welcoming to people living with Memory Loss and their care partners.
At Memory & Company, our highly skilled and trained Team Members provide medical care, physical fitness, and socialization programs to help slow the Memory Loss and improve a person’s daily life. Contact us today to discuss how you and your loved one can benefit from our VIP treatment.
