For those coping with the ever-changing signs of Alzheimer’s and dementia, finding the right assisted living facility can be challenging.
If you own an assisted living home, understanding how to cope with memory care patients is essential.
With so many challenges, how do you come up with a viable solution? Here are five problems you might face along with helpful tips on how to fix them.
1. Safety Issues
Common safety problems like slips and falls or fires can be of serious concern. People with dementia are more prone to hurting themselves. It’s absolutely essential that you have the proper protocols in place.
You can solve this problem with a few changes like installing security cameras and using lowered beds. It’s also a good idea to give patients personal call systems.
Have staff readily available to respond whenever a patient needs assistance, and you can minimize the likelihood of injuries.
2. Lack of Activities
People in memory care facilities need stimulation and special care to keep them occupied. If your facility doesn’t have set schedules in place, it can cause distress to your staff and your residents.
Fix the issue by providing regular activities like painting, game time, and music days. By offering special activities you can keep your residents happy. You’ll also help to stimulate their brain and give them something to look forward to.
3. No Professional Memory Care Therapy
Patients with dementia or Alzheimer’s require a higher level of care. Without this care, they can suffer in silence. Their mental health may also suffer.
Offer your residents a licensed, staffed therapist who specializes in those with dementia and other memory-related problems. This ensures that everyone gets the care they need by someone who can provide it in an experienced, professional manner.
4. Untrained Staff
While not everyone needs to be fully trained in therapy for memory care, your staff should generally know how to handle residents with dementia. Understanding the signs and behavioral changes can mean the difference between a pleasant and unpleasant environment.
Get your staff up to date on the latest memory care-related information so they can easily spot and understand how to cope with those suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia.
5. No Long-Term Plan
Dementia is a progressive disease that can worsen over time. Some assisted living facilities are not equipped to handle the many challenges that patient and staff members may face as people’s condition deteriorates.
Make sure you have long-term care plans fully in place so you can handle the many difficulties that come with caring for those dealing with dementia or Alzheimer’s. Network with other facilities who may be better equipped to handle patients as they reach their last stage of life.
Transform Your Problems Into Solutions
By fully recognizing the many challenges and potential problems that come with memory care residents, you’ll be better able to handle the problems that can occur.
Whether it’s adding new safety measures, planning more activities, or hiring professional therapists, these changes will make giving care easier for everyone.
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