At Kingston Bay, we understand the complexities and challenges that come with aging, particularly for those living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Recognizing when your aging parent may be ready for memory care in Fresno is a crucial step in ensuring they continue to live a dignified and fulfilling life. After all, you want to ensure that your beloved parent is safe, happy, and healthy.
In this blog, we’ll explore common dementia warning signs that you need to be aware of as well as offer communication tips for discussing the transition to memory care. Continue reading to get all the details on this important topic:
Identifying the Signs of Dementia
First and foremost, it is vital to understand that dementia can manifest in various ways. Depending on the individual, some symptoms can come along sooner than others. Due to this, that is why it is best to be educated on all of the common warning signs, which include:
Memory Loss Affecting Daily Activities
One of the primary warning signs of dementia include forgetfulness, especially of recent events or important dates. For example, have you noticed that your parent or other senior loved one is forgetting about their doctor appointments, family birthdays, or other significant dates? This could be one of the first of many red flags that indicate dementia.
Difficulty Performing Familiar Tasks
Another sign to be aware of is if they are struggling with routine activities they used to handle easily. This might include daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, paying bills, managing finances, grocery shopping, and more. The inability to complete these tasks can lead to a deterioration of quality of life, indicating that it could be time to transition to a memory care community.
Confusion with Time or Place
Have you noticed that your aging parent is losing track of dates, seasons, and the general passage of time? For example, are they unsure of the current month, season, or year? While it might be common to mix up the current day of the week, losing large chunks of time is very alarming.
Trouble Understanding Visual Images and Spatial Relationships
Due to the nature of dementia, those afflicted might face difficulties reading, judging distance, or determining color or contrast. This can lead to problems with driving and other common day to day tasks. If you’re concerned about your loved one behind the wheel, it could be time to discuss moving to a memory care community.
New Problems with Words in Speaking or Writing
When visiting with your senior loved one, take note of if they are having problems communicating. This might include stopping in the middle of a conversation and having no idea how to continue, or struggling to find the right words. They might also replace common words with nonsensical ones.
Misplacing Things and Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps
Everyone forgets where they put their keys or last placed their cell phone from time to time. However, if your parent is struggling routinely, this can be a major red flag. If you notice that they are placing objects in unusual places and are unable to go back over their steps to find them, it’s time to consider memory care.
Communicating with Your Loved One
Once you have made the determination that your senior loved one is ready for memory care in Fresno, the next step is to have a discussion with them. However, broaching this particular topic can be very challenging. Here are some tips to help you to facilitate this sensitive conversation:
Start Conversations Early
Address potential issues before they become urgent. It’s going to take a little time to make all of the arrangements, and if your loved one is unsafe at home, you’ll want to make the transition sooner rather than later.
Show Empathy and Understanding
When sitting down to talk, acknowledge their feelings and fears. It is common for older adults to be apprehensive about making the move, even if the change is a positive one. Make a list of their concerns if you aren’t sure how to address them at the moment so you can do your research together.
Provide Reassurance
It is vital to stress that the decision is about their well-being and safety. Talk about all the positive aspects of moving to our memory care in Fresno, such as fun activities, the opportunity to connect with other residents, and the comfort and ease of having the assistance of helpful staff. Below, we’ve gone more in depth on our many amazing services and amenities.
Why Choose Our Memory Care in Fresno?
At Kingston Bay, we focus on the individual, not just the disease. We provide customized care to ensure that those in our memory care community thrive. We take the time to know each resident personally, allowing us to cater to their unique needs. Below are some of the highlights of moving to Kingston Bay:
24-Hour Emergency Alert System:
Due to the nature of dementia, it is vital that staff is on site around the clock. Our emergency alert system ensures immediate assistance is always available.
Comfortable Living Spaces:
Moving to a senior living community shouldn’t mean compromising comfort. With spacious closets, individual temperature control, smoke and fire alarms, and walk-in showers with built-in benches, our residents feel right at home.
Modern Amenities:
Our residents enjoy a wealth of great amenities including Basic Cable-TV, Wi-Fi access, and maintenance services.
Life-Enriching Opportunities:
Becoming a resident of Kingston Bay means focusing on life enrichment and wellness. We offer engaging activities every day to truly enhance the daily lives of our residents.
Our Commitment to Affordability
We believe in providing quality care at an accessible price. The base rates for a companion apartment start at $3,995, and private memory care apartments begin at $4,995.
Contact Kingston Bay Today
Deciding on memory care in Fresno for your aging parent is a significant and compassionate step towards ensuring their safety and happiness. At Kingston Bay, we’re committed to providing the best care, focusing on each individual’s needs, ensuring they live safely and with dignity. For more information about our memory care services or to set up a time to take a tour, contact us today!
