Blog

Designed to provide a balance of independence and support for older adults living with Alzheimer’s disease or other form of dementia, memory care communities help their residents feel comfortable and safe while benefiting from tailored care plans and opportunities to socially engage.

Families often wonder if memory care is the right choice for their loved ones, though.

Understanding what a day in memory care might look like often provides clarity. The advantage of memory care community life is evident in the daily routines and activities designed to support cognitive function, physical health and emotional well-being.

While residents who live in private or shared apartments have access to the same level of services and amenities, those who live with a roommate may also benefit from increased interaction and camaraderie. Other advantages include:

• Encouraged participation in activities
• Minimized isolation
• Reduced impact of sundowning
• Relieved feelings of loneliness
• Reduced feelings of anxiety
• Enhanced sense of well-being

What a day is like for shared memory care residents

Morning: Starting the day with support and independence

Compassionate routines that respect individual preferences help residents start their day. Roommates often find comfort in the friendship of one who shares similar experiences and challenges. This sense of companionship can significantly reduce feelings of anxiety and loneliness.

Staff members who receive special training to provide care and attention to those living with dementia are available to assist with morning routines, which include grooming, hygiene and dressing. Those who participate in shared memory care are assured they will receive assistance in a private, dignified and respectful manner.

Residents will generally gather in the dining room for breakfast. This setting ensures they receive nutritious meals and assistance – and a social start to the day. Conversations over breakfast and enjoying the sense of community can foster feelings of well-being and belonging.

Mid-morning: Engaging activities

Memory care communities are designed to provide a structured, secure and supportive environment. During mornings, often the time-of-day residents best respond, therapeutic activities are offered to enhance abilities and quality of life.

Promoting cognitive function and physical health, your loved one might enjoy music, art or pet therapy, light exercise, arts and crafts or memory games. The activities are tailored to the cognitive levels and interests of the residents, minimizing any frustration. They also provide opportunities to interact and further strengthen the community bond.

Download our complimentary Family Decision Toolkit.

Lunchtime: Nutrition and social engagement

Lunch in a memory care community allows residents to gather once again and engage. Along with feeling a part of the community, this setting also helps maintain connections.

Nutritious meals meet any dietary needs and are appealing to the residents. Staff are on hand to assist those who may need help. Communities are knowledgeable about the best foods to promote appetites and independence in eating, such as finger foods that don’t require utensils.

Afternoon: Relaxation and individualized attention

The afternoon is a time for the residents to enjoy their personal choices – activities or relaxation. There may be visits from family or friends, participation in quiet interests such as puzzles or attending an entertainment program. Others might enjoy more vigorous pursuits.

Staff members are always available to assist residents with on or off-site activities, as well as to engage one-on-one, provide companionship and address any individual needs that arise.

Evening: Dinner and winding down

Dinner in a memory care community offers residents a delicious meal and social time. Promoting dignity and independence is a priority. Special plates and utensils assist residents while differentiating between other place settings.

After dinner, communities typically offer low-key options to help the individual recognize that the day is coming to an end. This might include listening to music or watching a movie. Staff help residents prepare for bedtime according to their individual timetables and preferences.

Nighttime: Shared apartments and overnight comfort

As the evening comes to a close, residents retire to their apartments. Those sharing an apartment may benefit from the added sense of security and companionship. A roommate can help reduce feelings of anxiety and loneliness, especially during the night, which can be a more unsettling time for individuals with dementia.

Shared memory care: The benefit of peace of mind for families

Memory care communities provide around-the-clock care. Staff members are available throughout the night to assist with any needs. The peace of mind from knowing a loved one is in a safe, supportive and caring community is invaluable. The compassionate and structured environment not only meets residents’ physical and cognitive needs but also enriches their lives through social interaction and personalized care.

The added benefit your loved one receives when sharing an apartment with another resident can be significant. The companionship and sense of safety it provides can significantly enhance the quality of life for residents.

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. Please contact us if we can provide further information or if you would like to schedule a personalized tour. Download our complimentary Family Decision Toolkit.