How Memory Care Works with Dementia

If a loved one has been diagnosed with dementia, you’re likely concerned about helping them cope with the cognitive changes they’re experiencing. Understanding what to expect as their condition progresses can help you find supportive resources and highlights the unique role Memory Care communities can play in your loved one’s well-being.

How Dementia Affects Memory

Dementia is a term used for a group of disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia, that are caused by abnormal brain changes. The condition tends to progress over time, taking a toll on cognition and memory. While the symptoms may vary depending on the type of dementia your loved one has, common experiences for someone with dementia include:

• Short-term memory loss
• Difficulty following conversations or finding the right words
• Getting lost in familiar surroundings
• Forgetting the names of people or objects
• Losing things or putting them in unexpected places, such as placing reading glasses in the refrigerator
• Struggling to complete familiar tasks, like using the microwave
• Mismanaging medications
• Forgetting appointments or important dates
• Trouble recognizing familiar faces
• Changes in mood, personality or behavior
• Impaired judgment

The Benefits of Memory Care

In the early stages of dementia, family caregivers may be able to provide the necessary support. But eventually, a person with dementia needs the round-the-clock care and specialized environment provided in Memory Care communities, like those at Artis Senior Living. We honor residents’ individual stories and nurture their contentment through a thoughtful approach to dementia care that includes:

Specially Trained Staff

At Artis Senior Living, staff members create a supportive, structured environment that gives residents the freedom to engage in activities that bring them joy, plus the predictability that helps reduce stress and agitation. Round-the-clock care and supervision ensure residents are safe and supported. Continuing education for care partners allows our team to stay up to date with the newest dementia care programming and best practices.

Intentional Design

A simplified layout helps residents navigate their environment comfortably, while avoiding overstimulation and disorientation. Artis Senior Living Memory Care communities have small, homey neighborhoods within the larger community, so residents feel secure while also enjoying access to The Town Center, where they’ll find a beauty salon/barbershop, health center,and community center. Visual cues built into the design make it easier for residents to navigate within the community, promoting independence as they stroll between their residence and outdoor spaces. Security features prevent wandering and promote safety. A restaurant-style environment with family-style meals offers residents the freedom to choose what to eat based on their personal preferences.

A Personalized Approach to Care

Our approach to care is defined by a philosophy we call The Artis Way. In fact, ARTIS is an acronym that expresses our guiding principles:

• A = Ability to have a voice. We value the input and experiences of residents and their families and encourage them to voice their needs and concerns.
• R = Respecting and maintaining relationships. Partnerships among families, residents, local healthcare providers, and senior living specialists are supported through ongoing communication.
• T = Treasuring each person’s uniqueness. A partnership profile allows us to get to know each resident so we can tailor programming to their individual interests and preferences.
• I = Integrity. We encourage residents and every member of the Artis community to participate in community life in a capacity that’s personally meaningful to them.
• S = Success and recognition. Residents and team members participate in programs that honor successes and foster a warm, welcoming community.

The Use of Technology

New technologies can be used to improve comfort, stimulate the brain, and boost cognitive and motor skills. With technology, we can curate family photos to prompt residents’ memories or design a virtual reality experience to provide safe and enriching experiences.

Support on the Dementia Journey

At Artis Senior Living, we know that supporting a loved one with dementia brings challenges. That’s why we offer educational events and other resources to help you navigate the caregiving journey. We also have Assisted Living and Memory Care communities throughout the country where your loved one can enjoy the safety and contentment provided by our person-centered approach to care. Contact us to learn more or to schedule a visit.