June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease, the symptoms, and the benefits of early diagnosis and supportive care. Alzheimer’s disease is the leading cause of dementia, affecting more than 7 million Americans age 65 and older, according to the latest report released by the Alzheimer’s Association. The condition causes memory loss, cognitive decline and changes in behavior and personality that can impact daily living.

If you suspect a loved one may be showing signs of Alzheimer’s, now is the time to educate yourself about the symptoms and explore options, such as memory care communities in Texas. While the conversation can be difficult, early action can help ensure your loved one stays safe, receives the support they need, and enjoys the best possible quality of life.

How Do You Know If It’s Time to Consider Memory Care?

Some memory decline is a normal sign of aging, so it is not always easy to determine if your loved one is displaying the early symptoms of Alzheimer’s. It is important to observe their behavior realistically to determine if they are displaying symptoms such as:

• Difficulty remembering new information or recent conversations and events

• Trouble finding the right words or understanding what others are saying

• Getting lost or confused in familiar places

• Poor judgment or decision-making

• Challenges with planning and organizing

• Changes in behavior and personality, such as mood swings, agitation and irritability

If you are noticing some or all of these symptoms, it may be time to seek a medical evaluation. Receiving an Alzheimer’s diagnosis can be overwhelming, but it allows you and your loved one to make informed decisions about the best care options.

How Does Memory Care Benefit Patients and Their Families?

Memory care communities are designed specifically for individuals with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. According to an article published by Harvard Health Publishing, memory care communities provide many benefits for residents and their families, such as:

• Safety and security. Memory care communities offer a safe and secure environment with staff members trained to care for residents with dementia-related symptoms such as irritability, increased anxiety and changes in mood, behavior and personality.

• Engaging, structured activities. Activities such as gardening, craft projects, cognitive games, exercise sessions and music therapy can reduce anxiety and irritability, lift spirits and promote cognitive function.

• Holistic care. Residents in memory care communities can receive assistance with daily activities and have access to physical therapists, psychiatrists and skilled nursing services that support physical and mental health.

• Peace of mind and support for families. Memory care allows family members to step out of the caregiver role and reconnect emotionally with their loved one while having peace of mind that they are safe and well-cared for.

Choosing the Right Memory Care Community

When choosing a Texas memory care community for your loved one, it is important to look at a wide variety of factors, such as staff training, the overall environment, programs offered, and the kinds of treatment and care available. You may want to visit the community at different times of the day to get a full sense of what it is like to live there.

Some important questions to ask include:

• Do healthcare providers regularly assess residents’ physical and mental health?

• How are families kept informed about their loved ones’ progress or changes in condition?

• What kinds of activities and programs are offered?

• Can special dietary needs be accommodated?

• What services are included in the cost of care?

Observing the community and asking these questions will help you to get a sense of the quality of care offered.

Touchstone Communities Provides Memory Care With a Personal Touch

At Touchstone Communities, we understand the unique challenges faced by Texans with Alzheimer’s and their families. We believe every resident deserves to feel safe, respected and engaged. Our compassionate, interdisciplinary teams care for our residents’ physical, mental, social and emotional needs through structured activities and individualized care plans. If you decide memory care is the best option for your loved one, Touchstone can guide you through the process and help you find peace of mind.

Contact us to learn more about our memory care services.