As your senior loved one's cognitive abilities change, their changing needs often require a little extra support. Whether it's mild cognitive impairment or something more serious, such as dementia or Alzheimer's, there are a wide array of assisted living programs to help seniors experience the highest quality of life possible.
Knowing your options can help you to find the ideal personalized support for your loved one that best matches their specific state of mental decline.
What is Assisted Living?
Assisted living is a care program designed to help seniors remain as healthy, independent, and safe as possible. The services offered, whether in a senior's own home or in a care facility, can be adjusted for everything from mild mental decline to 24/7 dementia support.
The Brain-Boosting Benefits of Assisted Living Programs for Seniors Experiencing Dementia and Mental Decline
For seniors experiencing memory loss and other mental decline issues, assisted living programs have a variety of benefits. In fact, they have proven to not only assist their daily needs but also enhance their cognitive health.
These brain-boosting activities can include physical exercise, medication reminders, meal planning, and improved nutrition, as well as social connection. For example, research suggests that seniors who are physically active significantly reduce their risk of developing Alzheimer's Disease. Assisted living programs that encourage and support seniors to exercise can help slow the progress of mental decline and improve their overall mental health.
Common Types of Assisted Living Programs for Seniors Experiencing Mental Decline
1. Aging in Place
One of the best assisted living options for seniors with mental decline is known as aging in place. This program allows seniors to remain in their homes, providing them with individualized care and support from a knowledgeable caregiver experienced in recognizing signs of dementia and other forms of mental decline. Services can include help with daily activities such as grooming, bathing or dressing; medication reminders; meal planning or preparation; and engaging in leisure activities that promote cognitive health and socialization.
Aging in place works well for those earlier stages of memory loss and mild cognitive impairment. However, some specialized programs, such as the Senior Gems® program from Senior Helpers of Olympia, can also provide aging in place for seniors with late-stage dementia. Each senior's needs are unique, so costs will vary depending on what type of service the senior requires and how complex the situation may be.
2. Independent Living
Independent living facilities, such as apartments and small townhomes in senior communities, can serve as a great fit for seniors who may need help with day-to-day activities but are still mentally sharp. If your loved one isn't quite ready to reside in an assisted care facility and they're still capable of managing their daily routine independently, independent living options provide them with the perfect balance between autonomy and access to resources.
Costs vary depending on the size and amenities offered within each facility. However, costs can reach upwards of $10,000 a month and are rising faster than the rate of inflation.
3. Residential Care Homes
Residential care homes are an ideal solution for seniors who need more supervision than what independent living facilities can offer. They provide a homelike atmosphere but with full-time staff to assist in providing daily aid and support. These facilities also provide mental health services tailored specifically to the individual needs of each senior. Depending on your loved one's specific needs, the cost may vary quite a bit.
3. Continuing Care Retirement Communities
Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) provide a range of care from independent living to assisted living to complete dementia care. This can be an excellent option for seniors who may require different levels of assistance and supervision as their mental decline progresses, allowing them to stay within the same community even as their support needs evolve. You will need to pay an entrance fee (the national average is $402,000), plus an average monthly fee of $3,555.
4. Nursing Homes
These are residential facilities that provide complete care and supervision for seniors who experience advanced dementia. Nursing home personnel are specially trained to anticipate their residents' health needs, assist with activities of daily living, and meet psychiatric or psychological needs.
The cost of nursing home care will depend on a variety of factors. This can include the location, level of care advised by the doctor, and amenities offered at each nursing home facility. The average national monthly cost is $9,034 for a private nursing home room.
Senior Helpers Offers Personalized In-Home Care for Dementia
Senior Helpers of Olympia Lacey Tumwater's in-home care offers personalized services tailored to your loved one's specific needs. We have services including specialized assisted living programs for seniors with dementia or Alzheimer's disease.
We can help seniors with the support of our licensed and trained professional caregivers who specialize in a variety of areas. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help seniors throughout Olympia, Lacey, Shelton, Centralia, and Thurston County.