Dementia, Alzheimer's and Memory Care
Memory Care is the most important choice to get right the first time.
Is it time for a memory care facility?
When Family Care May Still Be An Option
- Sleeping Too Much or Too Little
- Forgetting to Change Clothes
- Neglecting Brushing Teeth or Washing
- Forgetting to Eat or Falsely Remembering Eating
- Not keeping a clean house
- Rotting food in the refrigerator or pantry
- Increasing Confusion, Anxiety or Agitation in the afternoon or evening
- Medication schedule/management problems
When It May Be Time to Find A Care Facility
- Leaving the house without telling anyone
- Getting lost walking or driving
- Falling
- Forgetting to turn off the stove
- Paranoia, Changes in Mood or Agression
- Multiple Health Problems or Complicated Medication Regimens
- Not cooperating with Caregivers
- Sense of Time Problems
- Frequent ER/Hospital Visits
Struggling with feelings of guilt and sadness is not uncommon when making the decision to place a loved in a memory care community. Sometimes guilt is a result of wishing you could physically, emotionally, or financially take care of a loved one with memory loss because maybe they took care of you at some point. Sometimes, the guilt is because as a spouse, you’ve lived and loved them for many years and feel you’ve failed in some way if you can’t continue because of exhaustion.
The role of caregiver is very challenging and is not for everyone. When caring for them yourself is not an option or a desire, it’s ok to find them an appropriate community to meet their needs. You can still come visit and be their spouse, daughter, son and friend. That is one role that no one else can fill in their life. Lots of people can be their caregiver but no one else can take your place as family. If guilt, sadness or exhaustion regarding caregiving or placement is weighing on you, make a commitment free call to Charity to discuss the options. She’s a great listener and wants what’s best for you and your loved one.
