Dementia Care

Dementia is a general term that refers to a set of symptoms, including memory loss, difficulty with numbers, disorientation to time and place, declines in verbal processing, and a loss of fine and gross motor skills. This decline in brain function can also cause personality changes. Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, however there are other types of dementia which all share several common signs and symptoms.

No matter how much you wish you could care for your loved one on your own, at some point, it’s extremely likely the needs of your loved one would be better met by professional caregivers at a memory care community designed for residents with dementia. Moving to a memory care community is especially important if your loved one is exhibiting any of these symptoms:

• An increase in illness or physical symptoms as health care needs go unmet
• Increasing isolation because your loved one gets cranky and anxious even around familiar people and situation
• Hygiene problems – body odor, bad breath or unkempt appearance, or problems with bladder or bowel incontinent that the person can’t manage on their own
• Financial issues – unopened bills, collection notices, any unusual financial activity or suspicion of financial fraud
• Deterioration of living conditions – unwiped spills, dying houseplants, water or smoke damage, or hoarding behavior are all indicators of possible memory loss
• Wandering, a symptom that increases as the disease progresses
• “Sundowning,” a term that describes behavior that becomes much more difficult and agitated in the late afternoon and evening
• Aggression, another common symptom that can occur as the disease progresses, destroying the normal response centers of the brain

Caregiver stress is also an important consideration. People with dementia can be angry, irrational and unpredictable and can strike out emotionally or even physically at those who are trying to provide care. Even when the person is cooperative, repetitive questions and fearful behaviors can be very stressful for the caregiver. Memory care professionals have the training and patience for handling these situations. If caring for a loved one is causing stress or strain in your own family, if you are having financial or employment issues due to the demands of caregiving or if you find the experience overwhelming for your physical, emotional or mental health, moving your loved one to a memory care setting is the best option for all.

The best way to evaluate a memory care community is to schedule a tour.

Once you’ve visited Windsor Gardens and have decided to begin the admission process, one of our qualified assessors will meet your loved one in person to assess their individual needs and determine the perfect level of care.