How to Help a Loved One Who Needs Memory Care

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There are many different forms of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia and Huntington’s disease. Most forms of this illness have different stages with varying symptoms, and each can affect people differently. It is difficult to see an aging loved one become affected by any form of dementia. It may begin with mood swings or aggressive behavior, or they may start to have trouble recognizing. They may forget to pick up a grandchild from school or attend a family dinner. They might also have more extreme memory-related issues such as forgetting to take their medication or attend an important medical appointment. Whatever the case may be, if your aging loved one begins to exhibit symptoms of dementia or another memory-related disorder, it is critical to be supportive and get them the assistance they need.

Below are some common symptoms of dementia and other memory-related disorders:

  • Disruptive memory problems like those mentioned above

  • Difficulty communicating or understanding speech

  • Problems recognizing once-familiar sights and sounds

  • Frequent confusion or agitation

  • Changes in personality and mood

  • Mobility challenges like frequent falls or trouble with walking

  • Impaired judgment

  • Withdrawing from social settings or becoming isolated

If your loved one is experiencing one or more of these symptoms, a transition to memory care may be in their best interest. If you think they may be affected by dementia or a memory-related disorder, here are a few ways to support them:

Get Their Issue Diagnosed.

Is your loved one experiencing one or more of the symptoms above? If so, they may require the assistance of a memory care program to live a safe and fulfilled life. However, it is important to understand their condition so you can make the best decision. According to the Mayo Clinic, you should take them to “[a] primary doctor, a doctor trained in brain conditions (neurologist) or a doctor trained to treat older adults (geriatrician).” They will review your loved one’s medical history and run a series of tests to determine what is causing the behavior.

Be Patient with Them

The changes brought on by your loved one’s disorder can be scary and upsetting. In addition to memory issues and confusion, they may lash out at you. It is important to remember that however upset you may be, your loved one is likely feeling even more frightened and helpless. Be patient with them when they forget things, even if it is your name or identity. This can feel personal, but remember that these symptoms are not their choice. Keep this in mind especially if they become aggressive or ill-tempered with you. Engaging in conflict with them is unproductive, will make them feel alienated and may even cause you to resent your loved one or vice versa.

Find Them a Supportive Environment

Memory care communities are specially equipped with staff and programming that help mitigate the negative effects of memory-related disorders. Their aides are trained to deal with the various symptoms and their treatment programming will help your loved one reconnect with their memories and enjoy every day more than if they remained untreated.

If you would like to learn more about memory care in Freeport, IL, call WinnPrairie today at 815-656-4800 or contact us online.