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8 Step Planning Guide: Deciding Memory Care is the Best Option

MC Planning Guide

January 22nd, 2025 by Rachel Dimitroff

Planning Guide to Memory Care

There is a lot of planning that goes into making the decision of choosing memory care for yourself or for a loved one. This guide can help to spark your thinking on important factors to consider.
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8 Step Planning Guide: Deciding Memory Care is the Best Option

There is a lot of planning that goes into making the decision of choosing memory care for yourself or for a loved one. This guide can help to spark your thinking on important factors to consider.

#1 RESEARCH MEMORY CARE FACILITIES IN YOUR AREA

When the time comes for you or your loved one to decide on memory care, where you choose to spend it is important. After deciding an easy first step to research is typing in memory care facilities in you or your loved one’s area. Click around and spend some time on the websites that appear. When researching in the designated area, look at pricing as well. Some facilities offer a monthly fee or “all-inclusive” which covers everything, while others offer prices based on the level of care you or your loved one need. Pricing can have a large impact where people choose, but other factors like amenities, services, location and reviews play a role as well. Some facilities offer solely memory care, and others offer multiple care services like independent living, assisted living, and memory care.

#2 TAKE A TOUR

As you narrow down facilities, book appointments to visit them. It’s important to see the facilities in person rather than on their website. Observe your visit closely. Pay attention to whether the staff are friendly and helpful, if the residents look happy, and if it feels comfortable. On this tour, it’s important to be able to ask questions and come prepared. Deciding to go into memory care is not a decision to rush, which is why should put in the time to research the best fit. The “fun stuff” on a tour is important, do the amenities match what they advertise on their website, if they are up to standard as well as checking to see if their nurses are Certified Dementia Care Managers. It can be difficult to see which will be the “perfect” fit for you or your loved one, an in-person tour is a step in the right direction. On the tour, make sure to ask staff members how they plan to care for residents with dementia, and ask about individualized care plans.

#3 TALK TO YOUR FAMILY

If you or a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia, it’s important to talk with family as soon as possible to create a game plan. Discuss financials, legalities, and create a long-term care plan shortly after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Talk to the people you love or talk to your loved one. When making a significant transition such as this, leaning on others for advice and to talk about plans will be beneficial. The transition to memory care can affect everyone differently, you or your loved one may be having second thoughts or anger towards this decision. It’s possible you could be alone on this journey. It can be scary to go through a big life change with no family or support, if that is the case there are many online therapy websites for elders, this is to be able to speak your feelings and talk to someone out loud about coming to terms with your diagnosis. Check out elderly counseling.

#4 DISCUSS A CARE PLAN IN ADVANCE

It’s important to develop a care plan which is individually based on you or your loved one’s specific needs. This disease will eventually take away you or a loved one’s ability to make cognizant decisions when it comes to health. Lay out from the beginning what the necessary steps are to take as this disease continues to progress. Creating a will in advance will allow your loved one’s assets and belongings to be distributed how you specified before the turn of the diagnosis. Choosing a power of attorney, AKA “proxy”, should be someone close and able to make proper medical decisions. These conversations can be difficult but having someone make personal medical decisions for someone else is not ideal. Planning will save you or your loved one trouble and possible resentment. Check out more about financial planning when deciding to go into memory care.

#5 MAKE SURE HOUSEKEEPING ITEMS ARE TAKEN CARE OF

If a loved one moves into memory care, here are three main things to remember:

  • Make sure to change the mailing address to you or your loved one’s new address.
  • Cancel any cable and Wi-Fi subscriptions.
  • Update addresses on cards and accounts.

Hopefully, there is someone to help you or your loved one dive deep into what is the best plan for moving into memory care. Being prepared will make the transition much smoother and more efficient. It’s important to discuss this when it’s still early in the diagnosis so you or your loved one can still have input.

#6 CREATE A COMFORTABLE ENVIRONMENT

When setting up for you or a loved one’s room, it’s important to create a sense of familiarity. Bring a favorite chair, favorite blanket, or pictures of family and friends to provide comfort. Being in a new space, anything familiar can make a difference. Arranging the furniture in a similar setup to the previous living room can help, as living in a new space can feel overwhelming. As the Alzheimer’s or dementia progresses, being around familiar objects and photos of family will help to stimulate the brain even if there is no recollection.

#7 PARTICIPATE IN ACTIVITIES

With a 24/7 activities calendar to take part in, there is always something to do. With Alzheimer’s or dementia, staying active and social can help increase cognitive function and boost overall mood. Activities are offered at all times of the day to give each type of resident the chance to participate. Activities are not mandatory, however, strongly encouraged. Participating in these activities will help your loved one see how important it is to engage with others and how enjoyable it can be. When someone has Alzheimer’s or dementia, it’s important to stay distracted and enjoy the small moments in life. Not everything has to be to you or your loved one’s taste, but there is a good mix of different types of activities for different interests.

#8 Establish a Support System

Having people who will be there for you or your loved one will be crucial through the battle of this disease. Having family and friends that will check in, reach out, and remind you or your loved one of old memories will help lessen the burden of reality. Early in the diagnosis, establish important people who will make the effort to be there for you or your loved one. Discuss how it can become difficult to watch this disease take over and how communication will decrease. Having a support system will help not only you or a loved one but family and friends.

We’ve discussed 8 important steps to plan for after making the decision to go into memory care. Although there are many steps that correlate with making the transition, these are some main points to really consider. Make sure to do enough research and see these facilities in person. Reach out to a support system for assistance and have them help in the aid of housekeeping items that need to be taken care of. Understanding the significance of planning when facing a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or dementia will drastically help the process. Memory care is necessary for anyone suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia, it helps with the progression of the disease and creates a positive environment for you or your loved one to have the opportunity to thrive in.

Book a tour here to see if we’re the right fit.

Healthy Vision: Tips for Saving Your Eyesight

May 1st, 2024 by lansdowneheights

Healthy Vision:

Tips for Saving Your Eyesight

Our eyes are incredibly precious, yet it’s easy to take our vision for granted until problems arise. Let’s focus on proactive steps to maintain and improve our eye health. Here are some tips to keep your vision in top shape:

  1. Schedule Regular Eye Exams:

One of the best ways to safeguard your vision is by scheduling regular eye exams. Comprehensive eye exams can detect vision problems early on, allowing for prompt treatment and prevention of further complications. Make it a priority to see your eye doctor at least once a year, even if you don’t currently wear glasses or contact lenses.

  1. Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays:

 Just like your skin, your eyes can be damaged by the sun’s harmful UV rays. Whenever you’re outdoors, especially on bright, sunny days, wear sunglasses that offer UV protection. Look for sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays to shield your eyes from potential damage.

 

  1. Give Your Eyes a Break from Screens:

 In today’s digital age, many of us spend a significant amount of time staring at screens, whether it’s for work, leisure, or staying connected. Prolonged screen time can lead to digital eye strain, characterized by symptoms like dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches. To reduce eye strain, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.

  1. Eat a Balanced Diet:

Nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining eye health. Incorporate foods rich in vitamins and antioxidants, such as leafy greens, colorful fruits and vegetables, fish high in omega-3 fatty acids, and nuts and seeds. These nutrients can help protect against age-related vision problems like macular degeneration and cataracts.

  1. Practice Good Eye Hygiene:

Proper eye hygiene is essential for preventing eye infections and irritation. Wash your hands frequently, especially before touching your eyes or handling contact lenses. Follow your eye doctor’s recommendations for contact lens care, including proper cleaning, disinfecting, and storage.

  1. Stay Hydrated:

 Dehydration can contribute to dry eyes, so be sure to drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day. Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily to keep your eyes and body hydrated.

  1. Get Plenty of Sleep:

Adequate sleep is crucial for overall health, including eye health. During sleep, your eyes receive much-needed rest and replenishment. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to help reduce eye fatigue and maintain optimal visual function.

By incorporating these simple yet effective tips into your daily routine, you can help protect and preserve your precious eyesight for years to come.

Your eyesight is irreplaceable, so take care of your eyes today for a brighter tomorrow!

Celebrating National Senior Independence Month: Fostering Autonomy and Well-Being 

About Lansdowne heights, Memory care facility Leesburg

February 21st, 2024 by jassingh

Celebrating National Senior Independence Month

Fostering Autonomy and Well-Being

As we embrace National Senior Independence Month, it’s an opportune time to celebrate the spirit and resilience of our elderly community members. Every February, this dedicated month serves as a reminder to focus on fostering autonomy and well-being among seniors, promoting a life of purpose and independence. Let’s explore how our facility plays a vital role in supporting and encouraging the independence of our beloved seniors.

As we embrace this National Senior Independence Month, we honor the journey of our community members and celebrate their ability to live life on their own terms. Growing older doesn’t mean sacrificing independence; instead, it’s an opportunity to embrace newfound freedoms and pursue passions with unwavering enthusiasm. From sticking with beloved hobbies to discovering new interests, staying connected with loved ones, and prioritizing health and well-being, seniors have the power to shape their own destinies. This month serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting and empowering seniors as they navigate the next chapter of life.

Senior living communities play a vital role in fostering autonomy, well-being, and a sense of belonging among residents. Let’s explore some of the primary aspects we consider when evaluating how we can promote independence among our residents:

1: Tailored Care Plans: Recognizing Individual Needs

Our facility prioritizes personalized care plans that acknowledge the unique needs, preferences, and abilities of each resident. By understanding and respecting their individuality, we empower seniors to maintain a sense of control over their lives.

2: Accessible Amenities: Ensuring Comfort and Convenience

We’ve designed our facility with accessibility in mind. From easily navigable spaces to thoughtful amenities, our goal is to provide an environment that allows seniors to move freely and comfortably, fostering a sense of self-sufficiency.

3: Engaging Activities: Nurturing Physical and Mental Well-Being

National Senior Independence Month is the perfect time to highlight the diverse range of activities available. From fitness classes to arts and crafts, our facilities offer a variety of engaging activities that encourage seniors to explore new interests and maintain an active lifestyle.

National Senior Independence Month serves as a reminder that independence is a lifelong journey. We are committed to creating an environment where seniors can thrive, embracing their autonomy, and living life on their terms. Let’s all continue to champion the cause of senior independence and ensure that every individual has the support and resources needed to lead a fulfilling and self-determined life.

How to Choose the Best Memory Care Facility in Loudoun County: If Your Loved One is Having Early Signs of Dementia

Contact the staff at Lansdowne Heights

August 4th, 2023 by Rachel Dimitroff

Memory Care

How to Find the Best in Loudoun County:
If Your Loved One is Having Early Signs of Dementia

According to the World Health Organization, more than 55 million people (about twice the population of Texas) worldwide are living with dementia. If your loved one has started showing signs of dementia and you are looking for a memory care facility in Loudoun County to provide them with proper and safe care, we’d like to help you in your search. Choosing a memory care facility can affect your loved one’s quality of life and overall well-being. In this blog, we will discuss making informed decisions, and how to find the best memory care facility for your loved one through proper research. 

What are the signs of early dementia? According to the Alzheimer’s Association, early dementia signs include problems with: 

  • Short-term memory. 
  • Keeping track of a purse or wallet. 
  • Paying bills. 
  • Planning and preparing meals. 
  • Remembering appointments. 
  • Traveling out of the neighborhood. 

Conditions usually start slow and progress as time goes on. Contact a doctor if you or your loved one are having difficulties with any of these signs.  

Location 

When choosing a location, your loved one being comfortable is most important. Is it a new area? Is it the same town they’ve lived in for years? It all depends on your loved ones or your preferences to find the best location to choose. According to The Ridge Senior Living, when choosing a location, the most important factors include how close the family is, the ability of the location to meet your loved ones needs, the surrounding area, and the facilities nearby. Begin your search with facilities near your loved one, it may be best for them to stay within an area they are familiar with and attach memories. 

Ratings and Reviews 

When researching memory care facilities for your loved one, it’s important to research ratings and reviews from family members of current residents. According to A Place for Mom, look for thoughtful reviews and how they compare to ratings, sometimes reviews can be biased or inaccurate, but it’s important to take the time to look and evaluate all the information in front of you. Certain specifics to look for when looking at reviews on websites are the amount, if it’s a family member, specific details, reoccurring topics, and verification of the review. If you find something negative, don’t be afraid to ask the facility more on that topic and evaluate their response when you go on a tour.  

Book a Tour 

Taking a tour of the potential memory care facility your loved one will be at is crucial. This is your time to assess the environment and cleanliness of the facility, if it gives off a positive ambiance. While on a tour, you will meet some staff who would be in charge of your loved one’s care and needs. You want to look for compassionate and kind employees who will put your loved one’s needs first. You have the opportunity to interact with staff and get a feel for their level of training and demeanor. During your tour, keep an eye out for safety precautions the facility takes, like secure entryways and staff to resident ratios. Many facilities offer levels of care or specialized care plans, you can learn more on your tour asking questions about their programs offered and how they evaluate residents with dementia.  

Remember, it is not you in memory care, consider your loved one’s comfortability in this facility and ask yourself if this is the best environment for them. 

Staff 

When it comes to memory care, the staff is extremely important to your loved one’s experience. Working in memory care takes passion, patience, and grace. Something to look out for at a memory care facility is if the staff are Certified Dementia Practitioners. They have a special knowledge and training in dementia care, and the various stages and challenges. They are trained in giving personalized care to each resident based on your loved one’s specific and unique needs. When dementia progresses, Certified Dementia Practitioners have the knowledge on how to manage behavior and use redirection techniques to create a supportive environment. Remember to ask on your tour if any of the facility’s staff are Certified Dementia Practitioners.  

Security and Safety 

What’s more important than safety? Many memory care units are designed for people living with dementia to do it safely and for families to feel comfortable their loved ones are in a protected environment. You want your loved one to be able to move around freely and not be in a confined space, which is why doing the proper research and asking the important questions is necessary. When residents can move freely and safely, it can help to reduce anxiety and confusion. That feeling of independence is important for them to hold on to, as A Place for Mom stated, “sheltered freedom.” Things to look for in a facility that promotes safety: 

  • Open floor plans 
  • Secure outdoor spaces 
  • Video monitors 
  • Wander Guard 
  • Locked doors 
  • Bed monitoring systems 

Cost and Financials 

As you begin your search for a memory care facility, you will notice the range in prices and how different needs could affect the overall cost of living. According to A Place for Mom, the national median of a memory care facility costs $5,800 a month in the United States. This can all be affected by location. It can be hard to grasp the amount of money memory care can be, let’s discuss what could be included in the price…24/7 care, bathing/dressing/grooming, housekeeping services, protocol systems, medication management, transportation, activities, amenities, and dining. Some memory care facilities offer all-inclusive pricing, paying only a monthly fee, regardless of which level of care is needed. 

When it comes to affording memory care, there are options. Insurance, savings and assets, veterans’ benefits, Medicaid, family support, state and local programs, nonprofit organizations, reverse mortgage, and life insurance conversions.  

Activities and Amenities 

When doing your research, look out for activity calendars that offer stimulating programs for residents, especially in memory care. Most facilities offer fun and engaging activities for all residents and some specifically are tailored towards residents with dementia. Having amenities like patios, hair salons, a library, WI-FI and more helps your loved one feel at home and able to independently still make choices. Activities help your loved one stay active and build a sense of daily structure, which can improve their mood.  

Trust Your Gut Feeling 

When deciding or researching a memory care facility, trusting your intuition is an important factor to consider. Ask yourself if it feels right for your loved one and create a pros and cons list. When you tour a memory care facility, you may feel an emotional connection to that facility, or you may not. The atmosphere of the facility can either bring you comfort or warning signs, ask yourself: 

 Is it a warm environment?  

Does it seem well-maintained?  

Is the staff engaging and compassionate? 

Are their safety measures being implemented? 

Do they offer daily stimulating activities? 

Your gut is a powerful tool, this is an important time to use it and trust it. Your loved one needs proper care with a patient care team ready to create a fulfilling life for them. If you are struggling with your loved one’s diagnosis and need to talk to someone, The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America offers Alzheimer’s and Dementia support groups. You can also research in your local town the support groups that are offered.  

You and your loved one are not alone in this search, there are many resources and opportunities to create a beautiful life. Take the time to do the proper research and consider the right care your loved one needs.