Finding a memory care community that allows your loved one to remain independent is incredibly important. While it may not seem the case, seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia can still enjoy maintaining their independence as long as they are in a safe, comfortable and compassionate environment. Keep reading to find out how top Athens, GA, memory care communities strive to increase residents' independence while providing them with all the care and assistance they need to stay happy and healthy.
Memory Enhancing Activities
Something your loved one will be able to enjoy and that will promote their independence at an Athens, GA, memory care community are memory-enhancing activities. These activities provide residents with something to fill their days with that also benefits their memory and cognitive health.
Some examples of memory-enhancing activities include cognitive and memory games, art classes, music classes, fitness programs and much more. Many memory care communities also provide activity opportunities through cutting-edge technology that residents can also take advantage of to improve their fine motor skills and sharpen their minds.
Additionally, many of these activities are enjoyed in group settings with other residents and caregivers, and even family members can often get involved!
Personalized Plans
Seniors who have Alzheimer’s or dementia are going to experience very different symptoms and changes in their lives. An Athens, GA, memory care community should provide tailored plans for each resident. This ensures they will get specific care for all physical and mental health needs and that their plan is flexible as their preferences evolve
Personalized plans also give residents more independence as these plans offer a more person-centered approach. The individuals themselves will be able to get more involved in their care and can work together with their compassionate caregivers and medical professionals.
Senior-Friendly Environment
Memory care communities in Athens have a thoughtful and specialized design that provides better safety and security. Having a senior-friendly living environment allows your loved one to have greater independence without the risk of tripping and falling.
Additionally, residents can enjoy moving around as they please and visiting different spaces within the community. This is incredibly beneficial as it allows them independence and a sense of control in their daily life as well as physical activity.
Community Focus
One of the biggest risks to seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia is isolation. It is not uncommon for seniors to become isolated as a memory condition progresses, which usually only leads to worsened symptoms.
A memory care community provides an environment where seniors are surrounded by others every day. Not only will empathetic caregivers be available 24/7, but seniors can also socialize with other residents and friends in the community.
Being part of a tight-knit neighborhood increases mental stimulation and allows residents to socialize more independently. They can make friends on their own, become part of social circles, and join group activities as they please.
Supportive Staff
Older adults with memory-related conditions have unique needs and preferences, especially as their condition progresses. The helpful staff in a memory care community are specifically trained in providing the care and support each resident needs for optimum memory, mental and physical health.
Caregivers will often make one-on-one connections with each resident by learning their background, interests, favorite meals and more and encourage them to be as independent as possible, enhancing their quality of life.
Why Independence For Seniors Is Important
We often talk about the importance of independence for seniors in general when they are living in a memory care community in Georgia. However, you may not understand why this is particularly important for those who have Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. Here are some examples of why independence is so important, no matter how progressed an individual’s memory loss may be.
Increases Confidence
There is no better way to increase a loved one’s confidence than to give them more independence. As memory-related conditions progress, it can be difficult for seniors to maintain confidence if they feel like they have lost control of their lives. Allowing them to still maintain a certain degree of independence can give them that confidence back.
Confidence is a great motivator when it comes to learning new things and adapting to new situations. It can also motivate seniors to better maintain the cognitive and physical skills they still have.
Provides Stimulation
Alzheimer’s and dementia tend to progress when someone is not mentally and physically active. By encouraging independence, seniors are exposed to more stimulating activities that help boost their mental clarity as well as slow the progression of memory loss.
Examples of stimulation that help with this include staying physically active, learning new skills like painting, and communicating and doing activities with other people in a social setting.
The Caregivers Complete Guide to Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care
If you are considering transitioning your loved one into a warm and welcoming Athens, GA, memory care community, you may not know where to start. This is a big decision, but it is often necessary if your loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia and you wish for their health, vitality and quality of life to improve.
The good news is that a memory care community often provides everything your loved one needs to live their life to the fullest while maintaining their independence and dignity. If you are looking for the best memory care community to meet all of your needs in Athens, GA, download our Caregivers Complete Guide to Alzheimer’s and Dementia and contact us today at Arbor Terrace of Athens to book a tour of our spacious and beautiful community!
