Specialized Assisted Living in Shreveport-Bossier City
Not all assisted living communities are the same. Some communities cater to a specific population, such as adults with ties to a specific college or those who are Veterans. Other communities might offer specific amenities or services that set them apart from the competition. Specialized communities can provide a unique experience to residents that enhances quality of life, engagement, and wellness.
One example of specialized assisted living in Shreveport-Bossier City includes dementia care. Sometimes called memory care communities, dementia care communities are most commonly licensed as assisted living. These specialized communities provide an environment and experience designed to support those living with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia. Here’s what you need to know about these communities, including when your loved one might need their services.
The Environment
The memory care experience begins with the environment. These specialized assisted living communities are created and carefully designed to meet the challenges that can come with the different stages of dementia. Details like paint color, room size, and even carpeting have been chosen by architects who are well-versed in dementia care.
Memory care communities feature secure doors and outdoor areas, giving residents a sense of freedom without the dangers that can come with wandering off. You’ll find enclosed courtyards or patios in addition to doors with key card access for family members and staff.
Memory care communities intentionally choose colors that are soothing and comfortable.
Finally, the community is often designed to feel like a large home. You’ll see familiar shared spaces like a living room, a sunroom, and a dining room that feels more like a kitchen than a sprawling restaurant.
The Staff
While the environment of a memory care community sets the stage for a relaxing and home-like experience, it is the staff members who truly make the community a home. In a memory care community, team members receive specialized training before beginning their tenure at the community as well as regular educational training throughout the year. Everyone, from dining servers to nurses to caregivers, is trained on all aspects of dementia including disease progression, common behaviors, and personalized interventions for a successful interaction.
The Routine
Memory care communities aim to mimic familiar routines and daily rhythms. This approach ensures residents feel comfortable and can anticipate what comes next, which can reduce anxiety or restlessness. This is why you’ll find coffee discussion groups after breakfast and evening walks scheduled consistently on the event calendar.
Group activities are encouraged in a memory care community, but residents always have the option to participate in leisure pursuits independently. Team members often use the individual history of each resident to create personalized activities they might enjoy. For example, a resident who was a homemaker might enjoy folding towels or matching socks or a former teacher might enjoy flipping through children’s books or even creating worksheets.
The Meals
Meals are a staple in the routine of a memory care community. It’s a time for residents to gather and socialize while enjoying a healthy meal. Residents are encouraged to attend meals in the dining room, and to participate in conversation with their tablemates. Some communities even serve meals family style, which can encourage conversation as residents pass bowls of food to one another.
Memory care communities often provide finger foods for residents who might be too restless to sit for an entire meal or mechanical soft meals for residents with dental or swallowing challenges.
Family Involvement
Family involvement is especially important in a memory care environment. Families can expect to be invited to attend any activity when they are visiting, as well as special family events like a Father’s Day BBQ or a Holiday Sing-Along. In addition, family members are invited to regular care plan meetings where team members discuss how the resident is doing as well as goals or outcomes to focus on for the next few months.
Memory care communities also are excellent resources for family caregiver support. You can find educational resources and even support groups at some communities.
When to Choose Memory Care
Memory care is a type of specialized assisted living in Shreveport-Bossier City that is created just for those living with Alzheimer’s disease, or another type of dementia. But how can you know when it’s time for your loved one to move to this type of community?
Most memory care communities cater to those living in the middle and end stages of dementia. However, it is wise to plan a move before there are any safety concerns at home or emergencies. If your loved one currently lives in independent or assisted living, you can work closely with the team there to plan a successful transition to memory care.
Because of early awareness and testing, many seniors are being diagnosed with dementia earlier in the disease process. This can be helpful as it allows them to be an active part of future planning, including touring and choosing memory care communities for the future.
The Cottages Assisted Living Memory Care at The Glen offers specialized memory care services on our retirement community campus. Learn more about The Cottages here.