Alzheimer’s is one of the most deadly diseases affecting American adults today. It is a degenerative disease unable to be slowed down, prevented or cured, although many medical initiatives have been put in place to find viable long-term solutions. Affecting millions of American seniors as we know it and with a cure still not in our grasp, we instead have to look toward facilities that can accommodate those starting to show signs of the condition. Memory care activities for seniors are resources that can be accessed through in-home care or through an assisted living facility.

If you have a loved one beginning to show the telltale signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, it will help to know the next step so both of you can look toward the future with hope.

What Is Alzheimer’s?

Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia that impacts millions of people every year. It is the sixth leading cause of death in the country and it’s estimated one in three seniors will pass away with either Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. Nearly two-thirds of all Alzheimer’s patients are women, which translates as well to assisted living residents — a recent survey found almost 75% of seniors in assisted living communities to be women.

Is Dementia Different?

Dementia comes in varying degrees of severity, with Alzheimer’s being considered the most common as well as the most difficult. It is best to view dementia as a blanket term for a cluster of symptoms generally associated with the onset of age and the difficulties brought on both mentally and physically. Memory care activities for seniors is one such solution to help encourage a higher quality of life for those afflicted.

What Are The Warning Signs?

There are many signs your loved one could be experiencing the first stages of dementia. Symptoms include, but are not limited to, reduced awareness, forgetfulness, memory loss, impaired judgement and mood swings. Additional symptoms can include difficulty in motor control, disassociation and depression. As medical advances continue there are more and more resources available to help determine the risk for dementia.

What Is Assisted Living?

Assisted living facilities are one of the best options for elderly persons facing Alzheimer’s or dementia. These residences promote a higher quality of life as well as the independence that can be taken away from the disease — your average assisted living apartments will provide 24-hour medical supervision, basic meals, health care services and medication management. Social services, such as community events and travel, will also be encouraged.

What Are Some Memory Care Activities For Seniors?

Memory care activities for seniors are designed to counteract, as best possible, the long-term effects of dementia. These can be social, independent, daily or weekly — all of these are designed to help those with Alzheimer’s function to the best of their ability. Nearly four out of every 10 assisted living residents receive assistance with three or more daily activities, such as dressing or bathing. Group activities involving reading, painting or exploring personal interests do wonders for helping residents connect with others.

An Independent Living Report conducted by the ProMatura Group back in 2009 found the majority of respondents reporting a better experience at their facility than they expected. If your loved one is in need of options, a retirement home can provide both of you with the first step.