Dementia Care: Understanding Support Options for Seniors
A post from the University of Michigan Health, citing a new national study, reveals that around 10% of seniors aged 65 and older have dementia.
Dementia care at home can often be overwhelming and stressful for families. One way to support your loved one is to move them to a memory care community like The Landing of Poughkeepsie. Located at 251 Boardman Road in Poughkeepsie, NY, The Landing of Poughkeepsie offers seniors a safe, comfortable setting near the scenic Hudson River and vibrant downtown.
We specialize in supporting those living with dementia and other memory-related conditions. Keep reading to uncover support options for seniors with dementia.
Personalized Care Plans
One of the worst mistakes many people make when caring for seniors with dementia is adopting a general approach. It can be problematic because each person with dementia has unique needs. What works for one person may not work for another.
At The Landing of Poughkeepsie, we provide personalized care plans to ensure the best care for your loved one. The plans can include:
- Medication management
- Daily routines
- Therapy schedules
- Cognitive exercises
- Emotional support
- Specialized Alzheimer's care
These plans are customized to meet your loved one's specific needs and enhance their comfort and security. By focusing on individual needs, caregivers can provide more meaningful support that truly makes a difference.
Support Groups
Joining support groups is a great way for families to connect with others in similar situations. These groups offer a:
- Space to share experiences
- Opportunity to gain advice
- An environment to find emotional relief
- Chance to build connections with others
- Resource for learning coping strategies
Knowing you're not alone can be a powerful source of comfort. Family support services can also be a helpful part of the journey, offering guidance and resources to support both the caregiver and the person with dementia.
Memory Aids
Seniors with dementia often struggle to remember important details, like appointments or names. They may need memory aids such as:
- Calendars
- Photo albums
- Reminder systems
- To-do lists
- Labeling items around the home
- Digital assistants or apps
Memory support tools help your loved one stay organized and connected to daily life. With these aids, they can feel more independent and confident in managing their routine. They also help reduce frustration and confusion, offering a sense of stability in an often uncertain world.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy helps seniors with dementia regain independence in daily activities. The therapy focuses on improving practical skills that seniors use every day. Therapists focus on improving daily living skills, such as:
- Dressing
- Cooking
- Managing personal care
- Bathing and grooming
- Eating and feeding
- Mobility and walking
These skills play a vital role in helping maintain a sense of control and independence. With cognitive impairment assistance, seniors can learn strategies to improve memory and problem-solving abilities. Occupational therapy helps seniors feel more confident in managing their daily lives and routines.
Nutrition and Meal Services
Proper nutrition helps maintain seniors' physical health and cognitive function. However, seniors may struggle to prepare meals at home.
They may forget to eat or become confused during mealtimes. Moving your loved one to The Landing of Poughkeepsie ensures they receive healthy, balanced meals. Part of our amazing amenities and services is chef-prepared dining.
Our team prepares delicious, nutritious meals that support their health and well-being. Senior caregiving in our community focuses on meeting the dietary needs of each resident, making mealtimes stress-free and enjoyable.
Music and Art Therapy
Music and art therapy are effective ways to help individuals with dementia stay engaged and express themselves. Music can:
- Trigger memories
- Reduce anxiety
- Calm agitation
- Improve mood
- Promote relaxation
Art therapy gives seniors a way to communicate feelings they may have trouble expressing with words. Both therapies enhance cognitive function and emotional well-being.
These activities provide valuable memory support, offering seniors moments of joy and relief. Engaging in music and art therapy allows them to connect with their emotions while fostering a sense of achievement.
Adaptive Clothing
Seniors with dementia sometimes struggle with dressing due to memory loss or physical limitations. Adaptive clothing can help make dressing easier and safer. Clothes designed for comfort have simple fastenings and easy-to-wear materials.
These minor adjustments promote independence and boost confidence. Your loved one can feel more in control of their day.
Senior caregiving frequently requires these minor adjustments to enhance the quality of life. Adaptive clothing allows seniors to manage daily tasks more easily, helping them maintain their dignity and sense of self.
Movement Classes
Physical activity plays a vital role in maintaining overall health and reducing agitation in seniors with dementia. Movement classes focus on gentle exercises designed to improve:
- Mobility
- Balance
- Strength
- Flexibility
- Coordination
These classes are fun and social, allowing seniors to interact while staying active. Regular movement helps seniors maintain their physical and mental well-being. It also improves mood and reduces anxiety.
Social and Recreational Outings
Social and recreational outings provide opportunities to go out and participate in enjoyable activities. They can include simple things like:
- Visiting a park
- Going to a local event
- Joining group activities
- Attending community classes
- Enjoying a nature walk
Such activities aid seniors in staying engaged and connected. Being socially active helps prevent seniors from feeling lonely. It can also improve their mental health and cognitive function.
Regular social interactions keep seniors connected to others. It helps them feel more independent and boosts their overall well-being. These outings are essential for keeping seniors happy and engaged in life.
Dementia Care at The Landing of Poughkeepsie: Compassionate and Personalized Support
Dementia care requires personalized attention and understanding. Support options involve care plans, occupational therapy, and memory aids. These tools improve well-being and help your loved one feel more independent.
Doing all of this at home can be overwhelming. That's why moving your loved one to The Landing of Poughkeepsie can be a wise decision. Located just 10 minutes from downtown Poughkeepsie, we offer a warm, secure environment for those with dementia.
We also offer a Veterans Program, providing a 50% discount on the first month's rent and $1,000 off the second month's rent. Contact us today to schedule a tour and learn more about our services.