Watching a loved one struggle with a cognitive disorder like Dementia can be hard. You may feel helpless as they forget things and become less independent over time. However, you can take steps to ensure that they stay safe and healthy. One way to do this is by choosing help in memory care in Ducktown, GA, or a home that offers the right level of care for your loved one’s unique needs.
In this blog post, we discuss the benefits of memory care centers in more detail and how they can help provide a safe environment for your loved one living with Dementia.
Use Great Lighting
When it comes to lighting, you want to use natural light. This can mean using windows and skylights in your home or using artificial light that mimics the look of daylight. You also want to ensure that the lighting is easy for your loved one’s caretakers to control—for example, by installing dimmers or motion sensors on lights throughout your home. You should avoid bright overhead lights and direct sunlight from windows when possible.
Finally, ensure that any electrical devices put into your loved one’s room are not too warm in temperature (this will help them sleep) or too cold (which might cause discomfort).
Utilize Contrasting Colors
Consider contrasting colors if you are looking for a way to make your loved one’s environment more visually appealing and easy on the eyes. The most popular combinations of contrasting colors include black and white, gray and red or orange, blue and yellow, green and purple.
With these combinations in mind, it is best that these colors be used sparingly within the same room or area so as not to overwhelm your loved one. For example: if you choose to go with red and orange as the main colors in your kitchen, try doing so with only three out of ten cabinets; this will allow for some variation without being too distracting for those who may have difficulty focusing on one particular thing at a time (i.e., those suffering from Dementia). Similarly, when choosing furniture pieces such as chairs or tables, make sure they complement each other by either sticking with the same color scheme throughout an entire room or mix-matching pieces throughout the whole home, depending on what feels right!
Reduce Excess Noise
Noise can trigger agitation, which is why reducing excess noise in your loved one’s memory care home is essential. If you’re visiting, make sure the room is quiet. Use soft music or keep the TV volume low, so there aren’t too many distractions for your loved one. If they become agitated, try to distract them with a favorite activity such as reading a book or playing an instrument.
Provide Outdoor Space
Another key aspect of memory care is providing your loved one with an outdoor space that allows them to enjoy the outdoors.
Providing a safe place to walk and sit is essential, but it’s also important to provide a place where they can just be. This will help them feel like they are still living their life, not just existing. Outdoor spaces are often used for a variety of activities such as:
- Socializing with other residents and staff members
- Playing games like bingo or cards
- Enjoying the natural world around them
Programs Designed Especially For Memory-Impaired Residents
Memory care programs are designed especially for memory-impaired residents and their families and caregivers. The memory care team works closely with the family to ensure that your loved one gets the support they need to stay safe and retain their independence. They also work with your loved ones so they can stay connected with friends, family, and other residents at the facility.
