Our Communities
?>

4 Things You Need to Know About Memory Care

Back to Blogs

If your loved one is suffering from dementia or Alzheimer’s, this can be a difficult and stressful situation. Thankfully, Memory Care services are available to assist dementia and Alzheimer’s residents to ensure they are safe and comfortable. If you’re considering Memory Care for your loved one, like our facility at Byron Center Manor, here are four things you should know.

Memory Care Has Higher Staff to Resident Ratios

Compared to other assisted living centers, Memory Care facilities have higher staff-to-resident ratios. This ensures that your loved ones always have access to the care and assistance that they need. Staff members are also specially trained to understand, assist, and care for residents who have memory loss issues. In a Memory Care setting, staff members must have an understanding of medical needs, while also assisting residents who may be easily confused or overwhelmed. Our staff members are available on-call for residents 24/7 to ensure their safety.

Memory Care Facilities are Designed for Safety 

Wandering is one of the primary concerns with dementia or Alzheimer’s residents, who often get confused and walk away from caregivers or into dangerous situations. Memory Care facilities like Byron Center Manor are specifically designed to prevent wandering without being too difficult to navigate or seeming too institutional. For example, it’s typical for Memory Care facilities to include smaller spaces that are comfortable and safe for patients, as well as common areas and shared spaces like kitchens where they can enjoy life without being alone. At Byron Center Manor, each of our Memory Care neighborhoods is situated around a central Gathering Place where our residents can relax, socialize, and feel at-home. In addition, both neighborhoods feature a secure courtyard where residents can safely enjoy time outdoors.

Social Activities Keep Memory Care Residents Engaged

Residents with dementia and Alzheimer’s can especially benefit from engaging social activities that help them feel calm, happy, and connected to a community. While these seniors may often feel confused or disoriented, familiar activities can help trigger positive memories. Studies also show that engaging social activities with family, staff, or neighbors decreases rates of depression or loneliness for seniors with memory loss. These activities range from listening to music with friends to art projects or just enjoying time outside in the courtyard for a walk. Whenever possible, family members are welcome to enjoy activities with their loved ones in Memory Care.

Memory Care Safety Standards

All assisted living facilities are regulated to meet quality and safety standards, but Memory Care has additional licensure and registration requirements. This helps to ensure that staff members are qualified to meet the needs of dementia and Alzheimer’s residents and helps family members feel confident that their loved ones are well cared for.

Apply Today

If your loved one is in need of Memory Care services, call Byron Center Manor at (616) 878-3300 to learn more about our Memory Care neighborhoods. You can also contact us online or fill out a resident application.