When you have a loved one who is living with Alzheimer's disease or dementia, you'll often receive recommendations about memory care. While it is true that this is a progressive disease, there are many indications that effective memory care can slow the progression significantly. The slowing of the progress of the disease means more lucid moments for patients and more opportunities to build meaningful memories for family members. That is only the beginning of the benefits a solid memory care team offers your loved ones. These are a few reasons why memory care is vital for anyone who has dementia.

Reduces Frequency of Aggressive and Angry Outbursts

Some dementia and Alzheimer's patients experience angry outbursts and moments of extreme aggression that are outside of their normal character. These "spells" can be frightening for loved ones and often leave the patients feeling confused and further isolated. While little is known about the cases of angry outbursts and aggressive behaviors from Alzheimer's patients, memory care providers create a consistent routine that is soothing and helps to reduce the frequency of these events.

Safety and Security for Patients

Dementia patients living on their own, or even with family, are at greater risks of wandering, getting lost, or harming themselves through countless accidents. Memory care facilities offer supervision around the clock, so you don't have to worry about your loved one getting disoriented and lost. They also use advanced technologies for added protection to provide families with additional peace of mind.

Personal Care and Housekeeping Services

Dementia patients also often have difficulty with normal tasks others take for granted. Fortunately, memory care service providers can assist with many things, including the following:

• Laundry
• Meal preparation
• Housekeeping
• Personal care and grooming
• Managing medications

It's a long list but one that is important for helping people maintain dignity and some semblance of autonomy as the disease progresses.

Memory-Enhancement Services and Activities

There have been many exciting discoveries about activities that stimulate the part of the brain that holds memories. Since people are truly the sum of their experiences and responses, memories are closely associated with personality. Activities that enhance memories allow you to hold on to the person you know and love a little longer. That is the beautiful aspect of memory care that so many people overlook.

Memory care can be an effective tool for slowing the advancement of memory loss among Alzheimer's and dementia patients. It is one of the most important investments you can make if you have a loved one with either of these conditions. For more information, contact a memory care facility.