Memory assisted Living

Your No-Nonsense Guide to Understanding Dementia

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According to the World Health Organization, there are at least 47 million people around the world living with dementia. But what’s more alarming is that this number is projected to increase to 75 million by 2030. This is why memory care has never been so important and it all begins with a proper understanding of what exactly dementia is and what can be done to take care of a loved one who is affected by it.

 

 

 

Dementia is a syndrome, not a disease

 

Contrary to what most people believe, dementia is not a disease but a progressive syndrome caused by different brain illnesses affecting thinking, memory, behavior and the ability to perform activities of daily living. While dementia can affect anyone, it’s most prevalent among the elderly who need memory care the most, but it is not a part of aging.

 

 

 

Changed behavior is one of the biggest challenges in dementia

 

Dementia is overwhelming not only for the person affected but for the caregiver too. This is mostly due to a change in behavior that can be the most difficult to accept and can hinder memory care. But the most important thing to remember is that while you cannot control changed behavior since it is part of the condition, you can make adjustments to how you deal with your loved one so you can still ensure a good relationship with them and maintain their quality of life.

 

 

One of the best ways to come to terms with changed behavior is to have a strong support system like other family members and friends. You should also talk with a doctor about it because behavioral problems may be a sign of an underlying medical condition or it could be an adverse reaction to a medication.

 

 

 

Dementia is not just about memory loss

 

While most of us think that having dementia only means losing one’s memory, it can also affect a patient in other ways. Someone with dementia may have hallucinations or delusions, disorientation, behavioral changes, poor communication, and even unusual cravings.

 

 

Every dementia patient is different, which is why it’s very important to consult a doctor the moment you notice any changes in your loved one.

 

 

 

It is possible to live a happy life with someone who has dementia

 

There are many people around the world with dementia who are still enjoying a good life with their families, and you can do the same with a little bit of patience, creativity and a whole lot of love. Proper communication is key in memory care and you can start by understanding what your loved one’s needs are. Use simple words and sentences, make sure that there are no distractions around when you’re trying to communicate with your loved one and listen more than you talk.

 

 

 

The takeaway

 

Caring for a loved one with dementia is a long journey. You will need time to accept the fact that the person you love may not be the same anymore and that you will need to take them to a nursing home so they can get the best care possible. But with the right understanding of this condition and a strong support system, you can definitely get through this journey with your loved one.

 

 

 

Fallbrook Assisted Living is proud to offer its services to Fremont, NE, and surrounding areas and cities: Arlington, Cedar Bluffs, Ames Nickerson, Fontanelle, Arlington, Leshara, Colon, and Hooper

Facilities for Alzheimer’s

Are You a Nursing Home Resident? You Need to Know Your Rights

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The decision to move into a nursing home is a huge step in your life. And as you welcome this new chapter, you might have apprehensions and doubts about what lies ahead. After all, you’ll be spending most of your senior years in a nursing home, so it’s only fitting to make sure that your stay is as comfortable and safe as possible.

 

But what exactly are your rights as a nursing home resident?

 

 

You have the right to live a normal life

 

The notion that living in nursing homes makes you different from any other senior is definitely wrong. While you are in a new community, you still have the right to live a normal life, one where you can participate in activities that are good for your well-being and those that meet your needs. You have the right to socialize with other residents, join in communal activities and do your usual routines as long as they’re safe and not restricted for you.

 

 

 

You have the right to be treated with the utmost respect

 

Nursing homes are regulated by federal and state laws to ensure that all residents are protected in every way possible. As a resident, you have the right to be treated with the utmost respect and given the independence that you desire. You should be able to make decisions for yourself about the things that you want to do including when you want to wake up in the morning, go to bed at night and eat your meals throughout the day.

 

 

 

You have the right to be protected from neglect and abuse

 

As a nursing home resident, your safety and welfare should always be looked after at all times. This means that you can’t be isolated from other residents against your will and you have the right to be protected against physical, verbal, mental and sexual abuse.

 

 

If a nursing home is neglecting your needs or you have been mistreated during your stay, you have to report it to the nursing home, your family, the State Survey Agency or your local Long-Term Care Ombudsman so proper actions can be taken. The law states that all reported violations and injuries of unknown origins should be investigated by the nursing home within five working days of the incident.

 

 

 

You have the right to be safeguarded against any form of discrimination

 

Discrimination has been a longstanding issue in the United States. This is why all nursing homes are required to follow the Civil Rights laws where no applicant shall be discriminated or not accepted into a nursing home because of color, race, disability, age, nationality or religion.

 

 

These are just some of the many rights you have as a nursing home resident, so make sure you learn all about them to know when you should file a complaint and where you should go if your rights are violated by anyone. Of course, it also helps to always let your family know of your situation so they can also help you take the right actions.

 

Fallbrook Assisted Living is dedicated to making sure your stay with us is incredible. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Fallbrook Assisted Living today!

 

 

 

Fallbrook Assisted Living is proud to offer its services to Fremont, NE, and surrounding areas and cities: Arlington, Cedar Bluffs, Ames Nickerson, Fontanelle, Arlington, Leshara, Colon, and Hooper