Safety Features in Memory Care: What 24/7 Staffing Really Means for Your Loved One With Dementia
If you have a loved one living with dementia, safety is the top concern. They experience memory loss, confusion, and changes in judgment creating numerous safety risks. At home, these can be very difficult to manage. For those reasons, memory care communities are usually better suited for your loved one.
The idea of placing them in such a setting can be emotionally challenging. Yet, what you’re doing is exactly the right thing. That’s because memory care communities are designed with intentional safety in mind. Not only will your loved one be able to live comfortably, but they will always have continuous support via their highly skilled and well-trained caregivers, and specialized environments that are calm, safe, and reduce instances of confusion or disorientation.
Why Dementia Requires Special Safety Measures
Dementia doesn’t just affect memory. What it also impacts is spatial awareness, problem-solving, and the ability to recognize danger. Nonetheless, it also increases the risk of falls, wandering, medication errors, anxiety, and so much more. If your loved one lives at home alone, the likelihood of injuries, illnesses, or other serious medical emergencies increase dramatically.
One more good reason as to why memory care communities will be the better option for your loved one. They will be in a safe and secure environment with around the clock support staff that will assist them with their medication, put them at ease with their regular daily routines, and make sure their living space and other areas of the community are safe and free from any dangerous safety hazards.
What 24/7 Staffing Means in Memory Care
24/7 staffing is defined as trained caregivers always being on site around the clock. They are ready to respond to any needs your loved one may have. With this continuous presence in place, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that they will be well taken care of even at a moment’s notice. They may wake up confused in the middle of the night or need assistance at some point during their daily routines.
Either way, a 24/7 presence for staff is crucial in a memory care community and even in assisted living as well. You’ll have that relief in knowing your loved one is never alone or lacking in support be it the traditional business hours or in the middle of the night.
Immediate Response to Emergencies and Changes
Adding on to what makes 24/7 staffing important is the rapid response. If your loved one is feeling ill, falls, or becomes distressed, caregivers will be there to provide that assistance immediately. Staff members are specially trained to notice subtle changes in behavior and health so they can be able to address the concerns as soon as possible before they become more serious.
Compared to when they are home alone, that immediate response never happens. Emergency services can arrive in minutes. In that amount of time, things can go from bad to worse. Nevertheless, the concerns you may be facing at the moment about your loved one are valid. Yet, you can depend on the responsive staff to handle their needs in a memory care setting and they will update you regularly on any concerns or issues that may have occurred as your loved one adjusts.
Preventing Wandering and Unsafe Behavior
One of the most common and serious concerns with your loved one dealing with dementia is wandering. Memory care environments are intentionally designed to create secure layouts, controlled access points, and clear visual cues that all add layers of safety for your loved one. This way they can move around safely and be gently redirected whenever the need arises.
Your loved one won’t be able to enter unsafe areas thanks to the proactive staff. Plus, their comfort and dignity are both respected. This is a major contrast compared to your loved one living home alone and wandering can lead them into dangerous situations without that gentle redirection they need.
Medication Management and Daily Support
If your loved one often needs help with medications, personal care, and daily activities, memory care staff will help make sure they get the support every single day. 24/7 staffing allows for medications being administered correctly and consistently so that it reduces the risk of missed doses or errors. In addition, caregivers also handle the dressing, bathing, meals, and nighttime routines so that your loved one is comfortable throughout the day and night.
The Best Memory Care Support Is Found Here At Elison Senior Living of Graham
If your loved one needs memory care support, Elison Senior Living of Graham is here to assist them. While the transition from home to our community can be an emotionally challenging period, you’re doing the right thing for your loved one. We’ll take the best care of them and provide you with regular communication so you have full faith and confidence in us. Contact Elison Senior Living today to set up a tour.
