Signs Your Loved One Needs Memory Care Services

If you are like most people, you don’t want to think about a time when your parents or another elderly loved one can no longer care for themselves. However, if you notice someone in your family seems more forgetful than usual or if they are having trouble with tasks that used to be second-nature, it may be time to consider memory care services.

This is a big decision. Most people want to be absolutely certain that the services of a Memory Care Facility are needed. If this is the case, it can be beneficial to learn the signs that this service is needed.

Significant Changes in a Person’s Behavior

Someone who is dealing with dementia may begin to act differently. For example, if they have always been independent, they may become nervous or anxious when they have to drive or decline social events and invitations. Another sign is if someone is usually meticulous about their appearance and they suddenly forget basic daily hygiene tasks. The individual may also begin to seem more agitated or anxious.

Disorientation or Confusion that Impacts the Person’s Physical Safety

Dementia commonly causes disorientation and confusion. This may result in car accidents, or something more serious. For example, if your loved one has dementia, they may forget the “rules of the road,” which causes them to run a stop sign or traffic light. Or, they may begin to wander and get lost. If you have noticed your loved one is putting their physical safety at risk – in any way – you may want to consider the potential benefits offered by memory care services.

Decline in Their Physical Health

Usually, physical changes are one of the first, truly noticeable differences when someone is dealing with Alzheimer’s or dementia. If you have noticed your loved one is suddenly frail or thin, it could mean they have forgotten to go grocery shopping or that they aren’t taking their medications as directed. Many people with dementia will forget about their prescriptions and others will forget they have taken it and take a higher dosage than required.

There’s No One to Provide the Needed Level of Care

If you have a loved one who needs help around the house, but there is no one in the family that can take on this job, then memory care may be the best option. Sometimes, even if relatives want to help, they are unable to provide the high-level of ongoing care that a person wants or needs because of their job or other responsibilities. Memory care services are designed to ensure individuals get help and care and that their family can have confidence that nothing will happen to their loved one because of their declining cognitive condition.

Finding the Right Memory Care Service

When someone begins looking for a memory care service provider, they should remember that not all services are the same. It is important to research the options and find out what services each one offers. If possible, take a tour. By doing this, you can choose the facility that will meet your elderly loved one’s needs.