We Answer Your FAQs About Memory Care
Do you have caregiver burnout?
If you have a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia, caring for them is exhausting—and it can have devastating effects on your own health.
In the desire to provide the best possible care for your loved one, you may ignore your own needs.
That’s one reason caregivers are more prone to conditions such as anxiety and depression in addition to neglecting their own health conditions.
For many, memory care is a solution that not only relieves caregiver stress and guilt, but also provides a compassionate, safe, and stimulating environment for your loved one.
But there are a lot of questions about memory care, so we have compiled some of the most frequently asked ones so you can clearly see how this type of care helps thousands of families across the state.
What Is Memory Care?
Memory care is a specialized form of care geared to help those who have Alzheimer’s or other dementias. We understand that those with these conditions have very specific and unique needs, and that’s why our dedicated memory care centers were created at Coastal Pointe.
In this care, those you love are surrounded by dedicated and certified caregivers who offer an environment that is secure, yet stimulating.
What Makes Memory Care Different From Assisted Living?
At first glance, there are several similarities.
Both offer help and assistance with the goal for your loved one to retain as much independence as is safely possible, for as long as possible.
Both may also offer a wide variety of activities and both free residents from the hassle of home maintenance and daily chores.
But there are also some key differences.
Resident safety is always a top priority in our community for both assisted living and memory care. We pay special attention to those with Alzheimer’s and memory issues because these residents may be prone to wander or get lost easily—even if they are in familiar environments.
In addition, we have specialized staff on hand who work closely with those who have Alzheimer’s or other dementias. They help develop and maintain cognitive functioning through a variety of activities.
These staff members have received extensive training on how to assist those with cognitive issues, and this type of highly specialized care is a critical component of memory care.
How Do I Know When It’s Time for Memory Care?
We know there’s no one general answer—each situation should be assessed individually. However, you should consider memory care if your loved one:
- Becomes disoriented easily, even in familiar surroundings
- Is prone to wander
- Has lost a lot of weight
- Is unable to complete the tasks of daily living, including personal hygiene
- Has started demonstrating extreme signs of moodiness or agitation
- Is not safe living by themselves
- Has difficulty with walking or balance—symptoms that can accompany more advanced stages of Alzheimer’s.
It may also be time for memory care if taking care of someone with Alzheimer’s or other dementias is taking its toll on your own health or causing extreme stress. This can lead to a variety of other problems.
Will Medicare Pay for Memory Care?
Typically, Medicare does not pay. If you have questions about how to pay for these services, please speak with us.
How Does Memory Care Keep My Loved One Safe?
First, our memory care unit is in a secure part of our community. It is monitored by employees, and doors are locked to ensure a resident doesn’t wander away from the unit.
But we also realize security is about more than merely keeping your loved one in one place. We offer engaging activities that direct their attention to helping develop tasks that engage their mind and focus them on everyday activities.
By occupying their mind, we’re reducing the likelihood that they will become anxious or agitated.
Who Can Benefit From Memory Care?
It is targeted to help those who have Alzheimer’s disease, as well as mid-to-late stage dementias. By providing these residents with 24-hour supervision, we create a safe environment where they can thrive.
Family members also benefit from memory care—this service alleviates them from the stress and strain of caregiving for someone who has extensive needs.
What Should You Look for in a Memory Care Facility?
There are a few things you should look for when deciding upon a memory care facility. Ask yourself:
- Is the community secure?
- Are there safeguards in place to prevent wandering?
- Does the staff have extensive training in working with those with dementias?
- Does the staff maintain good communication with family members?
- Are the residents engaged in meaningful activities?
But most importantly, we believe you should take a close look at the residents of the community. Do they seem happy? Are they in an environment where they feel like family?
These are the values that we embrace, and we emphasize these facets in all that we do.
Coastal Pointe Is the Best Choice for Memory Care Near You in Shallotte, NC
Your loved one is a vital part of your life. Their presence has shaped who you are. Watching someone you love deal with the challenge of Alzheimer’s or other dementias is devastating. When you also consider the stress with caretaking, the result can be overwhelming.
That’s why we offer a safe, secure and stimulating environment through our memory care center, where you can allow us to step into the role of caregiver so you can step back into your role as spouse, son or daughter.
We invite you to visit our facility through a virtual tour to see for yourself why our residents love living at Coastal Pointe. Contact us today.