Senior Memory Care: How to Know When It’s Time
Senior memory care in Kansas City is for people with dementia to receive intensive, specialized attention in a residential setting. Memory loss at any stage can be challenging for everyone involved, evoking a range of emotions for family members, and posing questions that have no easy answers. Because dementia symptoms can vary day to day or moment to moment, it’s not easy to pinpoint when it’s time for senior memory care. But the more you know what to expect and how to prepare, the more it can make the journey feel less daunting.
Many older adults have occasional trouble recalling someone’s name or forgetting an appointment, but how do you know if their struggles are normal for their age or signs of dementia? If you’re worried that your parent has Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, there are signs to look for that are beyond the scope of “normal” aging. Some age-related memory lapses, such as occasionally forgetting appointments or names but remembering them later are considered normal in seniors of advanced age. Occasionally needing help using the settings on a microwave or recording a TV show are also fairly normal for seniors. However, memory loss that consistently disrupts someone’s daily life could indicate dementia.
Other significant indications that dementia may be becoming an issue are:
- Difficulty handling their finances, managing their budget, or losing track of paying monthly bills.
- Problems concentrating on a conversation or losing track of what they’re doing while preparing a meal.
- Becoming confused or growing suspicious, fearful, anxious or depressed;
- Other personality changes such as getting easily upset and lashing out.
Beyond forgetfulness, dementia symptoms can include delusions, agitation, extreme personality changes, confusion, and disorientation that can put you and your loved ones at risk. Early detection can help you make important decisions and plan for future care. If you see any of the warning signs listed, schedule an appointment with their doctor to rule out underlying conditions. Once you get a diagnosis, it’s time to figure out how to best care for your loved one
While many seniors with early-stage dementia can live independently or with the help of family caregivers, those with greater cognitive decline may need help from specially trained dementia care professionals in senior memory care communities. Senior memory care communities are specifically designed to meet the unique needs of people living with dementia.
Clover Care Home is a senior memory care provider in Shawnee, KS, providing quality dementia care to the greater Kansas City area. Our qualified staff provides supervision of residents 24 hours a day. We provide activities appropriate for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia that help keep residents active and engaged. For your questions, or to schedule a tour of Clover Care Home, please contact us by calling 913-991-2605, or contact us online.