HOW TO FIND THE BEST MEMORY CARE FACILITY

There are times when it is easy to second-guess your decision or question what you should do. Sometimes it can be difficult to determine if you made the right decision. That feeling can last long after you make your decision. You may not know if you have found the right choice until you make the decision. This is especially true when you are trying to make a life-changing decision, such as finding the best memory care facility for a loved one.

This blog post will help you if this describes a situation that keeps you awake at night. Although our memory care checklist will help you identify the things to look out for and ask questions, choosing the right memory care provider is subjective.

It’s not about the amenities or bricks-and-mortar a community offers. It’s about how it feels. While location, design, and activities are all important, there is more to selecting a memory care facility.

This blog will help you to understand how to choose a memory care community that is right for you and your loved ones.

Memory Care Centers That Feel Like Home

Everybody has their own definition of home. This may be based on where they were born or what they imagine a home to look like. It’s more than just the words you use to describe it. It is something you only feel when it feels.

Here are some tips to help you find the right memory care center for your loved one.

Pets are truth-tellers:

Does your community offer pet-friendly memory care? If so, how does it work with the pets that you see? Are they happy?

Trust your gut:

You know what it feels like to be welcomed into someone’s home. So ask yourself: “Do I feel welcome in this community?” Do I feel welcome to drop by whenever I like? You might also notice other people there visiting loved ones.

Personalized and individual:

Take a look at each residence to see if they are identical or if they have been decorated. You can make someone feel at home by giving them items that make him/her feel comfortable and welcome.

Friends on staff:

Do they make you feel at home, even if you don’t know anyone in the community? Are they friendly?  Do the staff and residents have a good working relationship?

Vibe check:

You can get a sense of the environment and how residents interact with each other. Knowing what a typical day looks like for your loved one will help you determine if memory care in Myrtle Beach is right for them.

What’s cooking:

What does the food smell like? Are there any kitchens where residents can make their own meals? A lot of people associate food with a sense of belonging. You can pay attention to the food and decide if it is something you would like for your loved one.

Think outside the box:

Do you see others doing things that your loved one would enjoy? You know what activities they enjoy or would love to try. Perhaps there are staff members or residents that your loved one would enjoy talking to. Do you think your loved one’s faith is important? Are there ways that they could continue practicing it on-site or by traveling to local houses of worship? It’s possible to imagine them living there.

Ask for a second opinion from your loved one

You may find it helpful to ask your loved ones if you have been on a tour of a community with your parent. These are some questions you might want to ask:

• What do you think about the residents and staff?
• Are they people you would want to have a conversation with?
• Is it a place that you would enjoy?
• Do you feel safe in the community?
• Perhaps most important, does it feel like home?
• Are You Looking for a Memory Care Center?

We know that finding the right care for your family member can be a difficult decision. Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest is a great resource for anyone who has a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Call us now.

Like our Facebook page for more great info about assisted living.

Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest
219 Middleburg Dr
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 903-0700
https://www.reflectionsassistedliving.com/

CARING FOR SENIORS WITH MEMORY CARE NEEDS DURING THE HOLIDAYS

It’s not unusual for seniors with memory care needs to find the holidays overwhelming. It can be difficult to navigate changes in routines and environments, loud social events, increased emphasis on food and drink, and other factors that may make it more challenging. It is important that loved ones with dementia feel included during holidays. Family is the true heart of holiday celebrations. Seniors often feel lonely or isolated at this time of the year. This is especially true if they are living alone or have lost their closest friends. what you can do is change your plans to best suit your loved ones who have Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Here are 7 ways to make the holidays more enjoyable for a senior with dementia:

Let them stick to a routine

Sudden changes can be upsetting or confusing for seniors needing memory care in Myrtle Beach. Simple considerations such as serving meals at the same time and in a familiar place can help.

Slowly make environmental changes

It’s a good idea for your loved one to spread decorations over several days if you are planning to decorate their living or bedroom. While decorations can bring joy and happiness to those with dementia, it is important to take the time to adjust to their needs. You may also slowly introduce the idea of assisted living to them and discuss their future.

Involve them in simple, but nostalgic activities

Ask them to help you bake holiday cookies and festive cupcakes. Or ask them to decorate a Christmas tree using ornaments passed down from one generation to another. It can be comforting and enjoyable for them to take part in familiar activities.

Prepare for family events

If you are taking your loved ones to a family event or party, make sure they have a place to go if they feel overwhelmed. Also, be clear with guests about your loved ones’ needs if necessary. Your loved one will be happier and more settled if you ask guests to lower the volume or refrain from using crackers or party poppers.

Reminisce on the good times

Many seniors with dementia enjoy the opportunity to relive old memories. It could be as simple as watching a favorite Christmas movie together or singing some of their favorite Christmas songs. This holiday season is a great time to reminisce on family memories. Why not create a digital album with old photos or videos that you can explore together?

Take time to consider their needs during mealtimes

Seniors with dementia often have difficulty eating. There are many reasons for these problems, such as decreased concentration, discomfort, depression, side effects from medication, and physical difficulties like chewing and swallowing. Avoid putting too much food on your loved one’s plate if they are having trouble eating. You may find that they are more comfortable with familiar foods than traditional festive dishes.

Ask them what they would like to do

Communicating with your loved ones is the best way for you to find out what works for you. Everyone is different and everyone has their own unique symptoms. Ask them to describe their ideal holiday celebration if they are able to communicate with you.

The holiday season can be a hectic time for families. It is difficult to think of ways to make your loved one feel included during this busy season. Although small modifications like those mentioned above may be helpful in certain cases. Always remember that every senior is unique. It is best to get professional help from experts at Reflections Assisted Living.

Call Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest now if you’re looking for a memory care facility in Myrtle Beach.

Like our Facebook page for more great info about assisted living and memory care.

Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest
219 Middleburg Dr
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 903-0700
https://www.reflectionsassistedliving.com/

MEMORY CARE FOR ALZHEIMER’S & DEMENTIA: HOW DOES IT DIFFER FROM ASSISTED LIVING?

Life changes when your loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Even people who think they are prepared for it, even those who think they are prepared, aren’t. You are now able to help your loved one plan for the future, advocate for them, and also involve them in finding a memory care facility. This is a huge task for anyone, and you may feel overwhelmed and exhausted without the right support.

There are many reliable and excellent services that can be found online to help keep your loved ones safe and happy.

It can be hard to find the right resources. This is especially true for dementia, which is a progressive condition that may require resources for memory care and assisted living. The immediate needs of your loved one may not be the same as what they will require in the future.

It is a smart decision to find a memory care community for your loved ones’ future needs. Some communities only offer memory care. However, there are many senior living communities that offer assisted living, too.

Memory care communities can offer comfort and reassurance to loved ones. They also provide personalized assistance that helps keep parents or their loved ones independent and healthy. You don’t have to wait until it’s too late or too early to start researching memory care options in your area. A transition to memory care in Myrtle Beach early can reduce the chance of transition trauma and make it more enjoyable for your loved ones.

Memory Care Communities offer many benefits

You might think that all senior living communities provide dementia assistance. While it is true that dementia-prone seniors may be represented in assisted living or independent living, the best choice is to ensure that the community you select specializes in memory care.

Memory care communities have been specially designed to provide the best environment, care, and interaction for people with dementia. Memory care is a great option for residents who require some assistance in daily activities. However, assisted living can be a good solution.

• A supportive environment that encourages their success
• Staff members with special training
• Daily activities designed for a rhythm in the day

Specialized Environment

Memory care communities are built to ensure residents’ safety while giving them easy access to the outdoors. Memory care communities offer residents the opportunity to walk in open areas, while also providing security so residents don’t wander off without supervision.

Memory care communities are not only safe, but they also feel at home. Residents often interact in the common living areas, such as the family-style dining area or activity room. The hallways are well-lit to reduce the chance of falling. However, they avoid using hospital-style lighting to ensure that everything is comfortable. Residents have easy access to outdoor spaces like courtyards and patios, just like at home.

Specially trained staff members

A community that provides memory care can also provide access to skilled caregivers.

Caregivers and team members have been specially trained in the dementia process. They know how to create meaningful interventions that build trust and provide meaningful moments.

Residents in memory care communities benefit from this extra training. They not only receive the best practices and techniques but also get a warm, caring staff that balances medical needs with a human connection. Family members are able to freely communicate with their caregivers and receive guidance and support about how to improve their next visit.

Engaging Activities

The most important thing is the last. The most important aspect of living in a memory community is engagement. The exceptional memory care communities have a rich calendar of activities and trips that aim to improve overall well-being, as well as have some well-deserved fun.

Elderly people with dementia living at home alone or with their caregivers are more likely to become isolated. Lack of social support can cause a host of health problems, including rapid cognitive decline and other issues. Memory care communities can be seen as hubs of activity. It is easy to connect with staff or fellow residents by simply walking down the hall or attending the next social gathering.

Call Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest now if you’re looking for a memory care facility in Myrtle Beach.

Like our Facebook page for more great info about assisted living and memory care.

Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest
219 Middleburg Dr
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 903-0700
https://www.reflectionsassistedliving.com/x

MEMORY CARE: SPECIALIZED SUPPORT FOR PEOPLE WITH ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE OR DEMENTIA

Memory care is a great option if it becomes difficult to care at home for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Memory care is a type of long-term residential care that offers intensive and specialized care to people with memory problems.

Many nursing homes, continuing care retirement communities, and assisted living facilities have memory care “neighborhoods”, which are designed for dementia patients. You can also find standalone memory care facilities.

According to the National Investment Center for Seniors Housing & Care (a non-profit that tracks industry trends), memory care is the fastest growing sector in senior housing. As COVID-19 devastated many long-term care facilities, occupancy rates dropped in 2020.

Many assisted living facilities have had to struggle with staffing since the pandemic. The quality of memory care units has also varied widely. As you think about whether memory care is right for your loved one, it’s important that you visit the facility and ask questions.

What is the difference between memory care and other types of care?

Memory care is designed for those with Alzheimer’s and dementia to have a structured, safe environment that reduces stress. The employees provide meals and assist residents with personal care tasks. However, they have been specially trained to handle the unique problems that can arise from dementia. They visit residents more often and offer extra structure and support to help them get through their day.

Residents in regular assisted living are expected to manage their time. Menus and meal times are posted but staff are not constantly checking in on them. In memory care, staff make sure residents get to their meals, go to activities, and etc.

Memory care facilities use alarm doors and elevators that require codes to ensure residents stay on the premises. Many facilities offer tracking bracelets, which allow residents to roam freely but also permit staff to track their movements.

Activities are offered to enhance cognitive function and encourage residents at various stages of the disease.

Selecting a memory care facility

Start your search at AARP or the Alzheimer’s Association’s Online Resource Finder. This online directory includes information about senior care services. Click on “Housing Options”, select the type of residence you want (e.g. assisted living or continuing-care retirement community), and then enter your zip code. The results will show information about whether the facility offers memory care.

Experts recommend visiting each memory care residence you have narrowed down several times. This includes at least one visit in the evening when staffing is less.

These are some things to keep in mind as you search.

Factors To Consider 

Layout and physical environment

Is it clean and comfortable? Are there circular hallways so that residents don’t feel lost? Are all rooms and doors clearly marked (with pictures and words) so residents can find their way around? Are there walking paths in an enclosed area? Are residents happy?

The Staff

Many long-term care facilities across the country are now severely short of staff because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Ask about staff shortages in the communities you visit. Also, pay attention to how staff interact with residents. Are they able to meet their needs quickly? Does the building have a nurse? What type of dementia-specific training does the staff receive? You should ask how they handle someone who is aggressive.

COVID-19 policies

The pandemic was particularly devastating to long-term care facilities. Many memory care patients were left feeling lonely and isolated during lockdowns. Research shows that dementia patients with dementia experienced a rise in their mental health, agitation, and severe behavioral disturbances due to social restrictions.

Ask about the rules that will be in effect in case of an outbreak when you are looking at a center. Is visitation allowed? If so, how will it be done? What will the staff do to communicate with families? What will the staff do with families?

Food and other activities

Is there any activity that could keep your loved one entertained? What are the strategies used by staff to encourage residents to eat? Watch to see if staff engages residents in the activities.Do they seem like they know residents personally?

Access to continuing care

Some assisted living units for memory care can’t offer complex medical care. Learn about the health conditions and behaviors that could force your loved one out of the facility or make it more costly. Ask if the facility is accepting Medicaid.

What is the cost of memory care?

It is not surprising that the memory care unit offers a higher level of supervision and care, but it comes with a steep price.

The average monthly memory care rent in the United States is $6,935. This is significantly higher than assisted living which averages $5380 per month but much lower than the $10562 average monthly cost for a nursing home.

Prices vary from one state to the next and are affected by the quality of care received.

Medicare Advantage and Medicare will generally not pay for personal care or room and board in an assisted living facility. However, they will cover the cost of medical care provided by the facility. Veteran benefits often cover the cost of assisted living facilities for eligible veterans, and surviving spouses. Medicaid coverage may be available for your loved one if they no longer have assets. However, it is only available if the facility agrees to provide long-term care.

Most families who use memory care must pay out of their own pocket. If your loved one has long-term care insurance, it can be very helpful. To help pay the cost, families might sell assets or tap into the “living benefits” on a life-insurance policy.

You need to plan if you believe they will need memory care. There are many ways to preserve assets and be eligible for Medicaid.

Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest can help if you’re looking for the best facility for your loved one who needs specialized care.

Like our Facebook page for more great info about assisted living facilities in Myrtle Beach.

Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest
219 Middleburg Dr
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 903-0700
https://www.reflectionsassistedliving.com/

VISIT YOUR LOVED ONE IN A MEMORY CARE FACILITY

Alzheimer’s can be a devastating disease. While you do your best to care for your loved ones, sometimes it might be time to transfer them to a memory care facility.

It’s difficult and delicate, but it’s essential to enjoy your time with your loved one. These are some tips to help you make the most of your visit to a memory care facility.

Tips When Visiting Your Loved One In A Memory Care Facility

A gift is a great way of spending time with someone you care about and to show your appreciation. Sometimes it can be difficult to choose what gift to give someone with dementia.

Make a photo album that reflects your life together. You can bring a game of cards or a puzzle to play together during your visit. It’s all about being creative and thinking outside the box.

Be Patient

Many memory care facilities advise that residents not visit for at least the first week. Because the nurses and aides must spend time helping the residents adjust to their new surroundings, this is a common recommendation. Remember to be patient when you arrive for your first visit.

It may be more difficult for them to recognize you than ever before. Take it slow and identify yourself. Even if your loved one doesn’t cognitively understand it, it is a difficult time.

You may also find it difficult. This experience can bring out many emotions. Give yourself permission to feel the emotions you are experiencing and be patient.

Take a special home-made lunch

Sometimes, dementia patients can have difficulty eating as they age. Seniors with dementia may face different nutritional challenges when moving into a new facility.

Plan a special lunch for your guests if you are planning to visit. You can think of something they enjoy eating that is rich in protein and other essential nutrients.

Bring Familiar Items

When working with someone with Alzheimer’s, consistency is important. Bring a few familiar items to your loved one’s next visit.

You could add songs to your phone, one of their favourite music playlists, a book that they enjoy reading, or even your pet. This will help them feel at home in their new environment.

Plan Ahead For Activities

It is important to plan activities ahead of your visit. Memory care facilities often offer a variety of activities for residents throughout the day. This is a great way for residents to interact with each other and to have fun.

Check out the upcoming classes and activities. You might find them taking walks in the community, reading books, or participating in art classes. You’ll get a better idea of their daily lives as residents.

Learn the Rules of the Facility

Each facility is unique and each has its own rules. Respect is an important aspect of your visit to these facilities.

COVID-19 is a major concern for today’s facilities. High-risk residents such as elderly people are subject to certain protocols, including wearing masks and visitor restrictions.

Talk to nurses, aides and other staff members to learn their policies. You will be able to make the most of your visit with your loved one.

It can be hard to be away from someone you love. Keep it brief and sweet when visiting a memory care facility in Myrtle Beach. Keep in mind that your loved ones are adapting to a new environment, daily routine and medication regimen.

They may feel tired and want to sleep more often. You should allow them to take the rest they need by keeping visits to a maximum of an hour.

It can be difficult to love someone with dementia. Even more difficult is when they have to be moved into a new place.

You can make the most of your memory care visit by being prepared, patient, and keeping it short. You’ll gain a better understanding of the community over time and your loved ones will be more comfortable with their surroundings.

Call Reflections Assisted Living now if you’re looking for the best facility for your loved one.

Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest
219 Middleburg Dr
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 903-0700
https://www.reflectionsassistedliving.com/

MEMORY CARE

Are you looking for a memory care facility? Here are some tips to help you find the right one.

About 70% of seniors will need some type of long-term care in their lives. These can include assisted living, memory care, and nursing homes. Because older adults can experience cognitive, physical and mental deterioration, they will struggle. Without medical expertise, caregivers may find it difficult to provide the necessary support for loved ones.

Residents with memory loss, Alzheimer’s Disease or other conditions will receive specialized care from nurses and team members in memory care communities and facilities.

What is Memory Care?

What exactly is memory care? It is based on scientific principles, provides a personal, engaging, comprehensive and personalized approach to memory care. Our memory care community residents will have the opportunity to receive hands-on assistance from trained caregivers and nurses, as well as activities that keep them busy and active. Our memory care program‘s central belief is that everyone can live an independent and confident life.

There are a few things to consider when choosing a memory care community

There are many factors that could influence your decision to choose a memory care community in Myrtle Beach. Each provider will offer its own strengths and weaknesses. We have compiled four key areas that will help you narrow down your choices.

Make sure that everyone has experience with Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Your chosen community should have the expertise and knowledge to care for people with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Memory loss progression is different from other conditions or issues that are associated with old age. It requires a skilled and knowledgeable team to address and alleviate symptoms.

Make sure you are clear about the relevant practicalities

This includes questions such as transportation options, medication management, living options and waiting lists, as well as certifications. You should do this before you begin to look at different options to ensure you have a complete list of everything your loved one needs to live a happy life. These are the essentials that your loved ones will need.

Book a Tour

Make sure you schedule a tour so that you can see the grounds before making a decision. Talk to residents and visiting family members when you visit the memory care community. Also, talk to any staff members who are there. If possible, make arrangements to visit their dining hall and learn about their activities as well as the health support they provide.

Are they suitable?

You or your loved one may have their own hobbies and interests. Therefore, it is important that the community supports their hobbies. If your loved one is interested in animals or has a pet, it’s important that the community offers pet therapy or pet-friendly services.

Call Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest now if you are looking for the best memory care community for your loved ones.

Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest
219 Middleburg Dr
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 903-0700
https://www.reflectionsassistedliving.com/