When a senior loved one has Alzheimer’s disease, it can be tough for their spouse and adult children to safely handle at home. Families often struggle to manage some of the common but challenging behaviors that are caused by the disease, including agitation, aggression and wandering.
A person with Alzheimer’s can go for long periods of time without sleep, creating another difficulty for loved ones. It frequently causes family caregivers, who often work and have a family of their own, to become exhausted.
In these situations, a memory care program can be a solution.
Learning More about Memory Care
Memory care programs are a type of specialized care for adults with dementia. These dedicated programs are typically located in an assisted living community or a nursing home, but can sometimes be a standalone community. There are also a few residential care homes in north Texas that work with adults who have dementia.
Memory care programs offer many advantages for people with dementia that traditional assisted living doesn’t provide including:
- Specialty Caregivers:Caregivers are an important part of a successful memory care program. Staff members receive specialized training to help them learn best practices for encouraging a resident with dementia to remain independent while still keeping them safe. This includes understanding how to communicate with Alzheimer’s residents once their verbal skills are impaired or lost completely.
- Serene, Secure Environment:The environment of a memory care program should be both soothing and safe. An alarm system on doors and windows alerts staff if a resident attempts to wander. Color-coded hallways, memory boxes outside apartment doors, and visual cues help residents find their way around. Noise is kept to a minimum to help create a peaceful environment that decreases the risk for agitation.
- Dedicated Dining Program:Another challenge for people with Alzheimer’s is maintaining a healthy diet. Often times it is because they have difficulty using traditional silverware or have lost their appetite. The dining staffs in memory care programs use a variety of techniques, such as aromatherapy and adaptive silverware, to ensure residents maintain good nutrition.
- Life Enrichment Activities:Providing people with Alzheimer’s an opportunity to feel successful is important. Memory care programs help residents structure their days with life enrichment activities that range from art and music therapy to wellness programs. These types of productive activities allow people with dementia to live their best lives.
How Much Does Memory Care in McKinney, Texas Cost?
The average monthly cost for memory care in McKinney, Texas is between $3,000 and $5,500. But communities price their programs differently so it is important to make sure you understand what is — and isn’t — included in the monthly fee.
Choosing the Right Memory Care Program
From medical centers to easy transportation options, McKinney can be a good location for families searching for memory care. Highways US 75 and US 380 run through the city. The Sam Rayburn Tollway goes directly from McKinney to the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. These make it easy for families to reach a loved one in McKinney.
While no family member wants to think the worst will happen, planning for a medical emergency often means taking in to consideration which communities are located close to hospitals. The McKinney area is home to nearly 30 medical centers.
How We Can Help You Find A Memory Care Program
The Senior Living Specialists are the most experienced team of senior care advisors in north Texas. Each of our team members is familiar with the memory care programs in and around McKinney. Call us at 214-929-5055 to learn how we can help!
Senior Living Specialists is a free service for seniors and their families. We are compensated by a referral fee when a senior moves into a community or care home.
