Making the decision to place a loved one in memory care is a decision filled with emotion, uncertainty, and the deep desire to ensure your loved one receives the best possible care during this stage of their life.
Understanding what memory care truly offers and knowing what to look for in a memory care community can help ease this difficult decision-making process. When families are equipped with the right information and evaluation criteria, they can move forward with greater confidence and peace of mind.
At Meadow Lakes, our goal is to provide you with the knowledge and support you need to make the best decision for your loved one. We’re here to support you through every step of this process. In this blog, we’ll explain what memory care is, how it differs from other senior living options, and what families should look for when evaluating a memory care community.
What Is Memory Care?
Memory care offers specialized residential care designed specifically for individuals experiencing memory loss. Seniors living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia thrive in these environments, which provide structured daily routines and round-the-clock specialized care.
Comparatively, traditional assisted living communities provide housing for older adults who maintain much of their independence but require support with certain everyday tasks. These include services such as personal care assistance, social programming, meal services, and housekeeping.
In a memory care community, services almost always include a secure environment, specially trained staff, assistance with daily activities, medication management, and structured cognitive programs.
Memory Care at Meadow Lakes: Specialized Services and Features
Meadow Lakes is home to a safe, supportive, and secure environment where individuals living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia can find beauty every day. Our team of memory care professionals provides assistance with daily living activities and medication management in a homelike setting.
We utilize A Dementia Care Model of Excellence™ program, a therapeutic model of dementia care designed specifically to enhance the physical, cognitive, and social well-being of each memory care resident.
Our person-centered approach to care means we customize plans to each individual and their needs. We also take into consideration interests, vocational preferences, and additional information to help create the best possible care plan for our residents.
Some of the key features of our memory care program include:
- Dedicated behavioral management team
- Nutritious, daily meals
- Cognitive wellness programming
- On-site medical and wellness services
- Sensory programming and therapies
- Secure indoor and outdoor spaces
Designed in the nature of Meadow Lakes, our memory care services offer a one-of-a-kind setting for this type of care. Each of our 16 memory care suites features a sunroom with direct access to a private, outdoor courtyard.
What to Look for in a Memory Care Community
You may be wondering what you should be looking for when it comes to a memory care community. Here are some of the things to consider when touring different senior living communities:
- Safety and Security: A secure environment with monitored exits, enclosed outdoor spaces, and safety features throughout the building gives memory care residents and loved ones peace of mind.
- Specialized Staff Training: The heart of quality memory care lies in the expertise and compassion of the staff. Look for communities where team members receive ongoing dementia care training, demonstrate behavioral management expertise, and practice a person-centered care approach that honors each resident’s unique story and dignity.
- Structured Routines: Individuals with memory loss thrive on predictability and familiarity. A quality memory care community provides consistent daily schedules that include meaningful cognitive, physical, and social activities designed to maintain abilities and foster connections.
- Personalized Engagement: Exceptional memory care communities develop customized care plans for each individual based on their history and preferences. This personalized approach honors who your loved one has always been while supporting who they are today.
- Environment Design: Look for a homelike atmosphere with wayfinding features such as clear signage and color-coded hallways that help residents navigate independently. Appropriate lighting and sensory spaces reduce confusion and create a calming, comfortable environment.
- Family Involvement: Quality memory care communities maintain open communication between staff and families to ensure everyone stays informed and aligned. Look for communities that provide family participation opportunities through care planning meetings, special events, and welcoming visits at any time.
Taking the Next Step
When choosing memory care, there are benefits that help ensure peace of mind that your loved one is being properly cared for. Many memory care communities have 24/7 professional care to ensure the safety of all residents. Caregivers’ stress is reduced when they know their loved one is safe and supported.
With personalized and specialized care, residents at memory care communities have an increased quality of life and constant support. Meadow Lakes is here to support you and your family before, during, and after making this challenging decision.
If you’re interested in learning more about Meadow Lakes, schedule a tour or contact our team today to learn more about our community and services.
