When your loved one is diagnosed with dementia, the entire family goes through the grieving process. You may have to make difficult decisions and face some very tough realities. Senior living communities can meet the needs of those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.
They offer senior living in Ambler, PA, in an environment that feels like home. In this place, everyone is welcome, no matter what challenges they face. Here are five ways that senior living communities can help you manage dementia behaviors:
- Senior Living Communities Are Familiar And Safe
In a senior living community, your loved one will meet people with whom they are familiar and feel safe. The care team will know them well and how to respond when they have dementia behaviors. They also have the resources needed to help manage those behaviors.
Senior living communities provide all an older person needs in one place: housing, meals, activities, and medical care. That way, someone is always available if you need assistance handling dementia-related issues like wandering or incontinence (or even just getting up in the morning).
- Caregivers Members Understand Dementia Behaviors
Team members can help recognize dementia behaviors and know what to do when a resident is having a difficult time. They can help residents with medication, eating, and other daily tasks. Team members also know how to help residents find their way around the community and make them feel safe.
A good caregiver will always have an open-door policy when discussing any issues you may be experiencing and offering suggestions to better assist your loved one in coping with their condition.
- Residents Create New Friendships
You might be looking for ways to help your loved one with dementia manage their behaviors. One of the best ways is by creating new friendships and participating in activities with other residents.
Residents can share their life experiences, which helps them feel connected and less lonely. If you’re worried about your loved one becoming too dependent on you, try spending more time away from them so they can make friends with other residents.
- Meals Are a Focal Point
Meals are a focal point in senior living communities. They’re an excellent time to socialize and connect with other residents, team members, and family members who visit.
A lot of people think that dementia patients don’t eat well or can’t enjoy food, but this isn’t true! Senior living communities try their best to ensure everyone gets something they like for every meal. That way, everyone feels included in the experience. It’s also helpful when someone can help them learn how to use utensils again if they’ve forgotten how since they haven’t had much practice lately (or ever).
- Indoor and Outdoor Areas Are Designed to Be Inviting
One of the most critical ways that senior living communities can help residents with dementia is by designing inviting indoor and outdoor areas. This means they must be accessible, safe, and comfortable for all residents.
Indoor spaces have plenty of windows so residents can enjoy natural light throughout the day. In addition, there is ample room for socializing between residents in these spaces and areas where they can engage in activities together (e.g., a library).
Outdoor spaces in senior living communities ensure everyone feels welcome while spending time outside, onsite, or offsite.
In Conclusion
Dementia is difficult to live with, but it doesn’t have to be impossible. Senior living communities can help you manage the symptoms of dementia and make sure that your loved one is getting the care they need. If you or someone you know needs help managing dementia behaviors in their home or work, contact us today!
