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Because of their many benefits, families often choose a memory care community when more personal attention is required for their loved one than can be provided for at home. 

A high level of care provided by staff specially trained in the best practices of dementia, healthy dining, assistance with daily tasks and security features are only a few of the services included. 

But are you aware of the advantages your loved one will receive that extend beyond daily support and activities? Memory care communities also provide opportunities for each resident to experience a higher quality of life.

How Senior Living Communities Can Enrich the Lives of Memory Care Residents

Take a moment to consider the following memory care features and how your loved one will be encouraged to live a full and meaningful life:

1. A community designed for them

Most homes weren’t created for aging, accessibility or to be a safe memory care environment. And most family members aren’t trained in how best to provide care, activities and attention to a loved one living with dementia. It will be necessary for both the individual and the caregiver to adapt as they navigate the changing needs required by this progressive disease.

There is great relief, however, when moving into a community that is designed to create a comfortable, welcoming and safe environment. Memory care residents will have cues, signs, symbols or other architectural and design elements to help them become familiar with their surroundings, lessening frustration and anxiety and boosting feelings of independence.

2. A private residence that is accessible and a genuine home

Privacy and accessibility are still essential for those living with dementia. Memory care residents appreciate having their own space where they can retire during the day, feel safe and enjoy the familiarity of their favorite belongings.

Communities design both their common areas and personal residences to provide comfort and safety for their residents. Families can help personalize their loved one’s space to truly create a home, including bringing a favorite chair, framed photos or crafting a memory box together.

Download our complimentary guide Just the Facts: Memory Care.

3. Opportunities to meet new people and socially interact

Individuals with dementia may self-isolate or find themselves separated from others often due to uncertainty or fear. This can be very detrimental to both physical and cognitive health. Research continues to show that providing opportunities to interact, even for small amounts of time, can significantly improve their quality of life.

Communities understand the importance for their memory care residents to remain connected. They offer many choices to relate to others, either at social events, planned activities or in the common areas and dining rooms.

4. Healthy dining tailored to capabilities and preferences

Good nutrition is also essential for those living with cognitive impairment, but dining can become a challenge as the disease progresses. Your loved one may find meals more difficult as they navigate the food, utensils or place settings.

In a memory care community, residents are accompanied to the dining room and supported to eat well. The chef-prepared food is appealing to both the palate and the eye. Personal accommodations are made to help maintain dignity and independence for those who may struggle to remain seated while eating or to recognize certain foods.

5. Choice of fun and meaningful activities

Even if someone is struggling with activities or may no longer enjoy the hobbies they had in the past, quality of life is still greatly influenced by days filled with stimulation, interest and joy.

Remaining engaged and connected with others can possibly slow the symptoms of dementia, according to research. You’ll also discover how communities offer a wide range of activities that can be modified to meet the abilities of their memory care residents, such as baking, playing games or physical fitness.

6. Participation in therapies designed to stimulate and soothe

Memory care communities typically offer several types of therapies for their residents, including pet, music, art, aroma, reminiscence or other sensory options. Not only can these activities encourage memory care residents to connect but also support them to remain engaged in the world around them.

Benefits of these therapies can include stimulating the brain, helping to promote memories, a reduction of anxiety and frustrations and generating positive feelings about themselves. Participation can also result in a reduction of wandering or restlessness.

7. Physical and cognitive fitness opportunities

Remaining in shape is just as important for those who are living with dementia. Along with reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes, regular physical activity can benefit the brain, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Communities provide their memory care residents access to physical fitness programs either with a fitness center or classes. Benefits can also include a delay in mental decline, improved sleep and elevating their sense of self-confidence and mood.

Discover life at a Northbridge community.

If you’re considering senior living for yourself or a family member, we hope you’ll visit one of our communities. You’ll find a maintenance-free, activity-filled and engaging lifestyle to help support your wellness goals.

You’ll also discover many benefits in a Northbridge Senior Living community, including our Signature Program S.T.A.R. Club (Sharp Thinking, Active Residents) – which offers our residents several activities to participate in with others, including:

• Daily exercise group
• Walking club
• Tai Chi & yoga
• Nutritional classes
• Library and book club
• Museum outings
• Artists in residence program
• Multi-generational music
• Genealogy Generations

We’re here to answer any of your questions and invite you to download our complimentary guide Just the Facts: Memory Care. Please contact us if we can provide further information or if you would like to schedule a personalized tour.