Memory Care near Prince George, BC

Memory Care in Prince George, BC

The topic of memory care isn't a favorite for most families because it can be an emotional discussion that causes hurt feelings. But, families need to talk about it to make sure that everyone is on the same page, and that loved ones know what to do if an aging senior develops dementia or Alzheimer's disease. The first step is understanding that memory care is a great way for seniors to live as independently as possible while still receiving the care they need. Unfortunately, those who develop dementia or Alzheimer's will eventually need 24-hour supervision because they become easily confused, anxious, and aggressive. The good news is that Prince George has plenty of communities to pick from, so families can easily find one that meets their needs.

Living in Prince George

Prince George is a mid-sized city with a population of about 88,000, and it has a lifestyle that residents enjoy boasting about. The residents are welcoming and eager to share the beauty and history of their town, and with low housing costs, higher incomes than the average in the province, and access to several sporting and cultural events. With two higher education facilities, it's also an educational hub, as well. With so many options for active seniors, there's plenty to keep them engaged and entertained.

Benefits of Memory Care

When it comes to discussing memory care, the best thing to do is to talk about the benefits. Explaining the benefits to seniors is a good way to help get their buy-in, and it's a great way to sell the idea to yourself if you're having trouble, as well. The benefits of memory care include the following:

• Staff trained to interact and support the residents
• Safe and secure community that encourages healthy wandering
• Assistance with daily activities such as housekeeping and laundry
• Choice of private room or semi-private
• Intimate, home-like areas to encourage friendship and socialization
• Spacious dining rooms available for family get-togethers
• Three homemade nutritious meals offered every day
• Daily social activities
• Memory-specific therapies

In addition to these benefits, many communities have other amenities such as full-service beauty and barber salons, spas, and high-end furnishings.

What to Look for in a Memory Care Facility

When looking for a memory care facility, there are a few things you want to look for in the facility. According to experts, there are two main areas you should focus on: resident safety and security, and structure. That's not to say that there aren't other things to look for, but these two are important. Memory care is typically part of assisted living or nursing home care, so there are details you want to look for within those facilities, as well. Going back to the memory care details, safety and security is important. Seniors with dementia and Alzheimer's tend to wander off, especially when they get anxious. Memory care facilities use locks and alarms to prevent unsafe wandering, but offer designated area where seniors can wander freely. Memory care facilities also use structured routines for seniors, which helps minimize their anxiety. That means using consistent caregivers, keeping meals at consistent times and intervals throughout the day, and providing a structured environment with visual cues to help guide residents.

Paying for Memory Care

It's always helpful for families to have an idea of the costs of memory care. The average cost per month is roughly $4,500, although the range runs from $1,500 to $7,000 depending on the location and amenities you choose. Figuring out how to pay for memory care can be a challenge for some families, so the best place to start is by talking to the facility you choose. Ask what programs they have available, and what their payment options include. In general, you can use long-term care insurance, government benefits, reverse mortgage funds, and private pay. In many cases, you may need to use a combination of these options, but check with the facility to see what they will accept.

Memory care is a great way to help aging loved ones receive the help and care they need, allow them some of their independence, and still keep them close enough to visit whenever you want. Seniors dealing with dementia or Alzheimer's can be difficult to care for without the proper training, so memory care facilities are usually recommended by healthcare professionals. The staff of these facilities knows how to handle seniors who become anxious and aggressive, those who scream and make unreasonable demands, and those who withdraw to avoid dealing with reality. All of these behaviors can be physically, mentally, and emotionally draining for families, which is why experts recommend a facility. By understanding the benefits and looking for the right facility, you will provide your loved one an opportunity to live a rewarding life despite their illness, and you will have peace of mind regarding their care.