Specialized Memory Care: A New Approach To Dementia Support
Many older adults will be diagnosed with dementia in their lifetime. They need compassionate support and expert care for the highest quality of life. Traditional caregiving methods will not work for these individuals. They need person-centered care plans that consider their unique needs.
Fortunately, older adults today have access to specialized memory care programs. Patient-centered care ensures the unique needs and abilities of the individual are considered when creating a care plan. The goal is to foster independence while helping the individual maintain a sense of purpose and dignity. Furthermore, building meaningful relationships is emphasized in this plan.
A Planned Environment
To provide specialized dementia care, the right environment must be found. Physical spaces need to be safe and supportive while remaining familiar to those suffering from cognitive decline. They need an environment that is easy to navigate, and many communities use lighting, colors, and signs to ensure residents can move around freely. Sensory stimulation is used to minimize stress while enhancing the well-being of residents.
Communication
Individuals struggling with dementia often have problems communicating effectively. Staff members recognize this and use clear, simple language to ensure what they are saying is easily understood. Visual cues are frequently used, and residents are provided with additional time to process information. When a resident engages in challenging behaviors, staff members respond with empathy and compassion. They focus on determining what is leading to the challenging behaviors rather than using restrictive measures.
Specialized Care
When creating a care plan for an individual with dementia, medical professionals customize interventions and strategies to ensure the individual receives the care and support they need. Before developing the plan, medical professionals must assess the individual’s physical, cognitive, and emotional requirements. Doing so ensures the plan will address the challenges this individual faces.
The care plan should include activities that are meaningful to the individual. Often, these activities will allow them to reminisce and engage in activities and hobbies they love. When they’re allowed to take part in these interests and hobbies, they have a sense of fulfillment and purpose.
This care plan must be flexible. A person’s needs change over time, and the planner must accommodate these changes. Staff members need to regularly review each individual’s care plan and make adjustments based on their current needs and situation.
Therapeutic Activities
Each care plan should include therapeutic activities that will cognitively stimulate the individual. These activities improve cognitive function and help slow the progression of decline. Regular participation in these activities can help improve the residents’ memory, problem-solving abilities, and attention span.
Therapeutic activities also benefit the individual’s emotional well-being. When they successfully participate in these activities, they gain a sense of purpose and accomplishment. They are less likely to become anxious, depressed, or agitated. Furthermore, these activities allow them to engage with fellow residents and overcome any feelings of loneliness and isolation they are experiencing.
Safety First
Individuals with dementia must be provided a safe environment where they can thrive. Sensory challenges are common in these individuals, and they may struggle to assess the information coming in through the senses. They need a soothing environment where they can remain safe, even if they wander.
Memory care communities are designed to provide residents with the highest quality of life. The special needs of these individuals require an additional level of care. However, each person remains an individual and must be treated as such. Personalized care plans ensure they are.
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