Memory Care Decision Toolkit:
Skilled Nursing

Memory Care in a Skilled Nursing Community

Because of the progressive nature of Alzheimer and other dementias, there may come a time when your loved one will face more complex medical needs and would benefit from specialized memory care within a skilled nursing setting. Memory care in a skilled nursing community features secured “neighborhoods” that are typically designed within the general community to prevent wandering and incorporate environmental cues to help them to navigate their living space with confidence. This type of care provides a safe and supportive environment where residents receive assistance with activities of daily living, medication management, and personalized care plans tailored to their specific needs. Structured routines and specialized programming aimed at stimulating cognitive function and promoting overall well-being are implemented by employees who have received additional education related to caring for individuals with memory impairment.

Why Consider Memory Care?

Memory care in a skilled nursing community can offer people with more advanced dementia a safe environment staffed by experienced, supportive caregivers. Specialized programs found in this setting can address many of the unique issues people with memory care issue face like: 

  • Wandering from home and becoming lost, or having trouble finding their way to and from familiar places
  • Finding it hard to hold up their end of a conversation due to a loss of short-term memory
  • Having difficulty remembering the names of even their closest friends and family members
  • Struggling with tasks that rely on memory or abstract thought
  • Feeling anxious, angry, sad or fearful without knowing why
  • Forgetting personal hygiene tasks or having trouble completing them
  • Experiencing challenges with manual dexterity or walking
  • Sleep disorders, such as problems going to sleep or staying asleep

Benefits of Memory Care in a Skilled Nursing Community

  • Nurses on-site 24/7 to support the resident’s entire range of care needs
  • Medical director who oversees each resident’s plan of care
  • Around-the-clock support with toileting or continence care
  • Nutritious meals and snacks, which may even be pureed if swallowing solid food becomes a struggle
  • Secure environment designed to reduce the risk of wandering
  • Caregivers who receive special training to learn how to meet the needs of people with memory impairment
  • Meaningful life enrichment activities offered one-on-one or in small groups

Further Resources

The resources provided below are designed to support your family, empowering you make informed decisions with confidence. We encourage you to download and share them with everyone involved in this important decision making process.

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