What Are the Signs it’s Time to Consider Memory Care?

People living with dementia need memory care. But the transition of moving from independent living may not be easy. That’s why having a conversation about the process as early as possible before a situation turns into a crisis is ideal but not always in the plans.

A March 2023 World Health Organization report found that dementia is currently the seventh leading cause of death and a major cause of disability and dependency among older adults. Nearly 10 million new cases are reported each year.

Inevitably, some residents of independent and assisted living communities will have to move to a memory care community.

The signs it’s time for memory care

A decline in health is one of the most obvious signs that it may be time for that move. Dementia can present as a loss of appetite, anxiety, depression, or aggressive behavior.

Look to see if the person has become apathetic even with things they once enjoyed. Absent-mindedness and disorientation are also signs.

Long before any decision is reached, ask these key questions to pick a memory care community.

• What is the staff-to-resident ratio?
• What medical services are offered?
• What training does staff receive in Alzheimer’s and dementia care?
• How about services for physical and occupational therapy?
• What about policies and fees for these and other services?

The team at assisted living community Ovation Heartwood Preserve in Omaha are poised to assist. Employees can also recommend a move to their memory care neighborhood on the same Omaha campus.

Safety is an upmost concern. That’s why Ovation opened Meadowlark, a memory care community for women residents who are cared for by an all-female staff.

Once in memory care at Ovation Heartwood Preserve, residents have access to on-site nurses 24 hours a day, physical and occupational therapists who provide memory-enhancing activities, and bathing and medication assistance as needed. Additionally, a local doctor and nurse practitioner come to the community to see patients once a week. All memory care staff undergo intensive Alzheimer’s and dementia practitioner training.

Ovation supports families too. Through Connections, the staff offers resources and support groups to guide families through the dementia journey. Ovation meets families and residents where they are, no matter the stage of dementia.