How to Determine if Your Parent Needs Memory Care

When it comes to our parents, we all want the best for them. However, their health may begin to decline as they age and require more specialized care. Memory care in Minnesota is one type of senior living option that can help those suffering from memory loss, dementia, or Alzheimer's receive the attention and support they need.

Determining whether your parent needs memory care can be difficult, but a few signs indicate it may be beneficial for them to receive such services.

1.   Signs of Memory Loss

The first step in determining if your parent needs memory care is understanding the warning signs associated with age-related memory loss. Common signs include:

      ●     Difficulty recalling recent events or conversations.

●     Confusion with time and place.

●     Disorientation when driving, getting lost while driving in familiar places

●     An inability to remember names or faces.

●     Difficulty in doing everyday tasks like preparing meals and managing finances.

●      Additionally, pay attention to their physical health as well - if they have been losing weight due to poor dieting habits or have experienced falls due to lack of mobility then it may be another sign that specialized help is needed.

 If you observe any of these signs in your loved one, consider a more specialized type of senior living, such as memory care.

2.   Medical Evaluations

 Before making any decisions about memory care, it is essential to have your parent(s) medically evaluated by a doctor. This medical evaluation will help determine the cause and severity of the memory issue and provide guidance on whether or not memory care is needed.

 The doctor should ask various questions related to recent changes in behavior and functioning and perform a physical exam and neurological tests such as blood tests, brain imaging scans, or even psychological evaluations to determine if memory care services are necessary.

 The results of these assessments will be used to determine if your parent needs further examination by specialists such as geriatric psychiatrists or neurologists who can provide more detailed diagnoses and advice regarding treatment options.

The specialist can evaluate recent behavioral changes and family history considerations when determining the best course of action for your parent's situation.

3.   Assessing the Situation

Here are some tips on assessing the current situation with your parent(s) to help you make the best decision for their health and safety.

●     First, consider how often they forget or misplace things like keys, bills, or other items that would normally be remembered.

●     Also, observe how well they remember information such as dates, names, locations, and conversations.

●     If your parent has difficulty remembering simple facts or frequently gets confused about daily activities, they may need additional help with memory care services.

4.   Considerations for Care

Memory care is one of the most specialized forms of elder care, and it is essential to understand all the considerations for providing this type of service.

●     The first thing to consider is the severity of their condition and their current living situation.

●     It's also important to take into account how much help and supervision they need, whether or not they can safely manage medications, and whether they require help with activities such as dressing, eating, or managing finances and many other activities of daily living, the amount of support available from friends and family members, and physical health issues that may need attention, and their overall mental well-being. 

5.   Exploring Options

The most basic form of memory care is in assisted living in Minnesota facilities. These provide a safe environment with staff that can help with daily tasks such as meal preparation and light housekeeping.

For more advanced forms of memory loss, specialized residential facilities focus on providing comprehensive assistance tailored to your parent's specific needs. This includes activities designed to improve cognitive functioning and technical art or music therapy therapies.

Making a Decision

Deciding to shift your parents in a memory care is challenging. It's essential to take time and consider all your options before concluding. It is important to remember that each person is unique and will have different signs and symptoms of memory decline. Therefore, it's essential to be aware of changes in behavior, especially if they involve a decrease in cognitive functioning. Additionally, being familiar with the different levels of care available can help you make an informed decision regarding the best option for your loved one.