Key Signs it’s Time for a Memory Care Facility

There is no denying the fact that old age comes with multiple complications. Such complications range from chronic illnesses to loss of memory. Whichever the case, there is always a pressing need to accord adequate care and attention to the elderly. Finding the right memory care facility can prove to be a daunting task, especially when you are deeply concerned about the well-being of your elderly parents or relatives. However, with the right sourcing approach, one should find an exceptional memory care facility committed to providing much-needed care.

Common signs that one needs the help of a memory care facility

The decision to take your loved one to a memory care facility is not an easy one to make. At first, it feels like you are abandoning them, which might burden your heart for an extended period. However, taking your loved one to a facility does mean that you deeply care for and love them. The specialized care that they are bound to receive at the facility will not only help to manage their memory loss problem but also address other related mental issues that are known to confuse. Knowing the right time to take an older person to a memory facility is the key to ensuring that they receive timely and quality care. Here are common signs that indicate it’s time to go to a care facility;

• Changes in behavior – One of the easiest ways to determine whether someone needs to be taken to a care facility is by looking out for changes in their behavior. Primary indicators like anxiety, irritation, and forgetfulness should not be taken for granted. In most cases, memory loss victims tend to withdraw from social activities and prefer to be by themselves.
• Disorientation and confusion – Being confused and disoriented is a clear sign that one’s memory has been affected. Every so often, confusion manifests in the forgetfulness of virtually everything, including very important events. Keep in mind that this state of mind can pose a significant danger to a victim by putting their life at risk. To avoid risking the life of your loved ones, it is advisable to take them to a care facility once you detect serious cases of disorientation and confusion.
• An unhealthy living environment – It is normal for anyone in their right state of mind to try and ensure that the environment within which they live or work is neat and organized. However, this is not the case for a person suffering from memory loss and other mental-related problems. The tendency to neglect basic responsibilities like tidying up the environment or paying utility bills is a clear indicator that it’s time to be taken to a care facility.
• The caregiver is overwhelmed – Most caregivers are committed to ensuring the well-being of those placed under their care; this is especially the case when it comes to taking care of elderly individuals. Taking care of a person who has Alzheimer’s disease can, however, be quite overwhelming. When you notice, the caregiver might unconsciously vent out sometimes. Such instances can end up stressing your loved ones and worsening their present condition. To avoid similar occurrences, it is better to take your loved one to a care facility where they stand to benefit from existing professional care.
• Incontinence – Incontinence is a problem that majorly affects the elderly; it is precipitated by problems with the muscles and nerves, which are responsible for helping the bladder to hold or release urine. The best option to deal with this problem is to have your loved one admitted to a care facility.

Final thought

Deciding to have your elderly relatives confined in a care facility does not in any way mean that you do not care for them. With the myriad complications accompanying old age, it is always advisable to have your elderly parents or relatives cared for by professionals, especially when they show signs of memory loss.