If a person is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or similar dementia, it is physically and emotionally challenging for the entire family and the person himself. At an early stage, senior may live at home but as the disease progress, safety and quality of life may decline continuously. Seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s are recommended to move to the memory care community. The memory care community is called Alzheimer’s care community. These communities are specifically created for patients with memory issues. They ensure the safety and security of Alzheimer’s and dementia patients and they have trained staff to handle the challenges. These communities are designed to meet the needs of Alzheimer’s patients and provide them a quality life. Some Alzheimer’s care programs are associated with nursing homes or assisted living communities while others are independent facilities. Benefits of memory care program are;
- Seniors with dementia and Alzheimer’s find it difficult to eat independently. Staff at the dining of memory care prepare healthy and easy-to-eat food that works around these challenges. Smoothies and finger foods provide nutrients and a sense of success to the residents of the community. They provide adaptive utensils and provide peaceful dining without any distraction.
- Physical care and comfort of residents are also considered in the Alzheimer care unit. Activities that can promote remaining abilities are also focused in addition to limitations of dementia. Most memory care units arrange activities related to art and music therapy. Chair yoga and other low-impact fitness programs are organized. Outdoor areas are dedicated to encouraging bed gardening and nature strolls.
- Alzheimer’s care facilities have experienced caregivers. The same caregiver staff is assigned to work with residents to increase the comfort level. Dementia-specific training is given to caregivers so that they can assist the residents to keep them safe and independent. This training program allows caregivers to easily communicate with residents.
If you are trying to find out a good Alzheimer’s care option for your loved one, check the cost and quality of available facilities. Alzheimer’s facilities are indeed expensive. The expected cost is $5,375 monthly in the United States. Actual cost may vary from state to state and cost may also depend on individual needs.
- 55+ Communities
Active adult communities who want to get relief from home maintenance and do not want to take the stress of lifestyle can select 55+ community/retirement community for them. These communities are designed for seniors who are medically fit and healthy and do not need any type of assisted medical and personal care. There are 50,000 such communities in the United States. 55+ communities are for seniors over the age of 55. Community residents live independently, do their groceries, laundry, and prepare their meals. Lifestyle services may provide in some communities. These communities have varying features and qualities. 55+ communities are divided into two types.
- Senior apartments are similar to standard apartments, the only difference is the age restriction. Apartments have senior-friendly designs including walk-in showers, no slippery floor, and handrails in bathrooms. They do not offer luxurious facilities but all basic amenities are provided. They have fitness centers, a parking area, and a cafe. They have a resident organizer to organize activities and events. Senior apartments are more attractive despite similarity with regular departments due to the social environment and benefits of a senior community.
- Senior Lifestyle communities offer a wide range of housing types. These may be townhomes, standalone houses, and condo buildings. These are much larger communities that spread tens of acres. Senior lifestyle communities have clubhouses, cafes, fitness centers, swimming pools, tennis courts, and other activity spaces. Buildings are designed by keeping in mind the safety of residents. Communities have wheelchair-accessible buildings, well-lit sidewalks, and secure entrance and exit points. Exterior maintenance is included in the services provided by the community administration.
55+ communities are least expensive as compared to other senior community types. The pricing structure is set by 55+ community depends upon the rate of monthly services including parking, Wi-Fi, and electricity bills.
