If you have an age-related memory condition like Alzheimer’s or dementia, your doctor may have recommended looking into memory care. But what is memory care, and what are memory care communities like? Learn what to expect from a memory care community, and you’ll see why they’re a popular choice for seniors like yourself.
What to Expect from a Memory Care Community
Memory care communities can be a vital source of support and care for seniors with age-related memory issues. If you’re a senior who was recently diagnosed with a condition like Alzheimer’s or dementia, you may be wondering what to expect from a memory care community. What is memory care, and what makes it a good option for seniors that live there?
What Is a Memory Care Community?
A memory care community is a type of senior living community that specifically caters to the needs of seniors with age-related memory issues. Memory care communities provide all of the same amenities and support you’d expect from any other assisted living community:
- Comfortable and private living spaces alongside common spaces where residents can socialize, work, and play
- Daily assistance with housekeeping, home maintenance, and other chores
- Gourmet meals and snacks served regularly throughout the day in restaurant-style dining areas
- Regularly scheduled classes, events, and other enrichment opportunities for seniors to enjoy
For some seniors, an assisted living community provides all of the help they need to continue enjoying their golden years. However, seniors with age-related memory issues sometimes need different kinds of support to navigate their daily lives. In memory care, services and amenities are tailored specifically to their needs, and more personalized support is provided so that community residents continue to thrive regardless of their memory issues.
How Are Memory Care Communities Different from Other Assisted Living Communities?
To an average person, memory care communities might not look different from other general assisted living communities. However, the differences are significant for seniors who cannot get the support they need from regular assisted living. Memory care communities offer a mix of standard assisted living amenities and specialized features that are designed to support seniors with age-related memory issues in living as independently as possible:
- The physical spaces that memory care communities occupy are designed to be easily navigated by those with Alzheimer’s and dementia and easily observed by staff. This helps seniors avoid getting lost or confused during the day.
- Seniors with age-related memory issues have special needs that need to be met by experienced staff. That’s why memory care communities train staff members to understand cognitive conditions and provide the skilled support residents need.
- Memory care offers specialized enrichment activities that focus on cognitive engagement and creative expression for residents. For example, Springhouse Village’s Touch of Grace program uses the five senses to help residents rediscover old memories and stimulate their minds in a variety of creative ways.
- Social isolation can be a challenge for seniors with age-related memory issues, which is why memory care includes plenty of opportunities for socialization for seniors at every ability level. Seniors can play games and reminisce together, building new friendships and finding security in a welcoming community.
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Now that you know what to expect from a memory care community, it’s time to visit one for yourself and see how it can benefit you. We hope Springhouse Village will be at the top of your list!
Are you interested in retiring in Springfield, Missouri? At Springhouse Village, we know how important it is to enjoy your retirement in a lively and welcoming environment. We make it easy for our residents to participate actively in our community. Whether that means encouraging residents to join an exercise class or assisting them in starting a garden club, we strive to help our residents thrive. To learn more about the amenities and services we offer, contact Springhouse Village today by sending us a message online or calling 417-708-3403.