Memory Care near Kelowna, BC

Memory Care in Kelowna, BC

Knowing when it's time to move your loved one to a memory care facility is often one of the more challenging aspects of your loved one getting older. There are specific signs, but sometimes those signs are hard to see because you love them, and you don't want them to feel you've abandoned them. However, as a caregiver, you have to do what's right for them. There are 10 specific signs that it's time to consider memory care, and the good news is that Kelowna has plenty to offer families in that situation.

Living in Kelowna

The city gets its name from the Okanagan language, which means "grizzly bear," but, interestingly, the city's nickname is Orchard City. The city is surrounded by water, so one of the most famous activities is the annual wakeboard competition and musical festival. It's also used as a film location for several films that take place near the water. It also has an extensive art and culture scene which includes museums, art galleries, stadiums, and more. If your loved one is planning to retire in Kelowna, it would be a good idea if they were interested in the arts.

Safety

The first sign that it's time to consider memory care facilities is when you spend your entire day worrying over a loved one's safety. Seniors with dementia or Alzheimer's become easily confused, they wander off, and they can become agitated or physically violent. In this case, it's better to place them in the care of trained staff members who know how to handle these situations.

Caregiver Burnout

If you or another family member have taken on the responsibility of caring for your loved one with memory impairment, and you are exhausted, it's time to consider help. Seniors with Alzheimer's or dementia are very demanding, and sometimes those demands are irrational. Dealing with a loved one who yells at you, or is emotionally abusive can take a toll on untrained caregivers, leaving the family with several issues to deal with. When you reach a point where you're tired, seek the help of a memory care facility.

Health Care Declines

You may notice that the more progressive your loved one's memory impairment gets, the less they remember to take care of their personal health care. The biggest concern in this department is medication management. If you can't be present to ensure they take care of their health needs, then you have to think about who can be present. It makes sense to place your loved one in a memory care facility where they will get a social environment, therapy to help manage the symptoms of memory loss, and a dedicated staff who will see to your loved one's health care needs.

Isolation

One of the biggest challenges caregivers face when caring for a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer's is the fact that their unpredictable behavior makes it difficult to take them out in public, yet if they don't remain active, they get restless and disruptive. The end result is that they don't go out, and seniors become lonely and depressed, adding to the negative effects of memory loss. A certified memory care facility can help with this because it's designed to allow seniors social activities to keep them engaged and active, yet the staff is highly trained to handle situations where a senior's behavior becomes disruptive. It's the best thing for seniors who have become isolated and restless.

Physical Changes

If your loved one starts losing weight or gaining weight, and you can't help them regulate those changes, then it's time to start thinking about a memory care facility. But, it's not just about weight changes. A hunched posture is another concern as it indicates they're having trouble getting around, and their ability to navigate the world around them is diminishing. This can lead to disruptive outbursts, aggressive yelling, and other negative behaviors that are hurtful to family members.

Personal Hygiene Declines

It's difficult for anyone to discuss hygiene issues, particularly body odor, because you don't want to embarrass your loved one. However, declining personal hygiene is the strongest clue that your loved one is no longer able to care for his or herself. You must consider what's best for them and start looking into memory care facilities.

Finances Go Downhill

Most seniors have spent a lifetime developing good money habits, so when you start noticing stacks of unopened mail or collection notices, you should start to question your loved one's ability to care for themselves. Losing track of finances is one of the first signs of dementia, and a senior in that situation needs professional care to help manage the symptoms and, in some cases, slow the progression of the disease.

Easily Scammed

Seniors with memory loss are easy targets for thieves out to make a quick buck. If you notice strange purchases, your loved one taking in someone as a roommate, or even donating to new charities you've never heard of, these can all be indicative of dementia. It's a good idea to start researching memory care facilities, and put a stop to any fraudulent activities.

Damages Around the House

Whenever you visit your loved one, whether they live independently or in assisted living, pay attention to their surroundings. If you notice fire or water damage around the place, it could be a sign that their memory loss is becoming more severe. Those with dementia and Alzheimer's may forget that a burner is on and drop a dish towel on top of it. Or, they might leave the water running in the bathtub until the water overflows. These are signs that they may need memory care.

Unnecessary Purchases

Finally, if your loved one starts buying multiples of the same product, but doesn't appear to be using them, or starts displaying signs of hoarding, then you might want to consider memory care as an option as these are signs of dementia. They may not remember buying the item, and buy it again when at the store. And, of course, another warning sign is the unwillingness to let things go for fear they may need it in the future. These are all signs that your loved one is losing a grip on reality.