If your loved one has recently been diagnosed with the early stages of Alzheimer's, you might be thinking about what the future will hold for him or her. However, you might be hesitant to put him or her into a memory care facility just yet. Even though the idea of making this big change might seem scary, it can be a good idea to look for a memory care facility, even for someone who is not showing symptoms of the more advanced stages of Alzheimer's just yet. These are a few reasons why.
1. Focus on Safety for Your Loved One
Even though your loved one might seem as if he or she "has it together" for the most part, his or her safety can still be in danger. Even minor forgetfulness can be a big problem, such as if your loved one leaves the stove on by accident or walks across the street without remembering to look both ways. Although these issues become more serious as Alzheimer's progresses, it's never too soon to look for a safe place for your loved one to stay. In a memory care facility that is designed specifically for individuals with Alzheimer's, certain steps are taken for safety, such as by keeping the doors locked to prevent potentially dangerous wandering.
2. Help Slow the Progression
Even though there is no cure for Alzheimer's, it is possible to slow the progression. If your loved one is getting the right care -- as he or she should be once in a memory care facility -- then the progression could be slowed down. Many of these facilities have multiple doctors, therapists and other staff members who will assist with various types of treatments and can provide specialized attention that your loved one might not get elsewhere. For example, your loved one's healthcare team might assist with medication, mental activities and stimulation, and more.
3. Prevent Confusion in the Future
Even with the best of healthcare, your loved one's Alzheimer's is sure to progress over time. As this happens, you can expect more and more confusion. Going ahead and getting your loved one settled in at a memory care facility now can help prevent confusion and fear later, when you might not be able to explain to your loved one why he or she is being moved. The more time that your loved one spends in his or her new facility now, the more adjusted he or she is sure to be as things progress. Additional reading can be found here.
Share30 June 2016
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