Memory Care-Helping Others By Sharon Black

A month ago was the first meeting of Memory Care at the Center. Judy and Larry Burgess of Smith Center, Kansas,  saw the need for caregivers and anyone interested in learning more about dementia and Alzheimer disease.

Judy Burgess and ElDean Holthus

Monday, November 27, 2023, was the second meeting with a guest speaker, Dr. Ferrill Conant, a physician at Smith County Memorial Hospital and Smith County Family Practice.

The Gardner Wellness Center is the center that is in the title of the group.  A room has been remodeled for health care related meetings.

Dr. Conant touched on the KU Cognitive Care Network at Kansas University in Lawrence, Kansas, one of 33 research institutes in the nation. The outreach person to come to the clinic in Smith Center is Leah Friesen. The clinic joined the Network and Leah will see family or patients there or via the phone.

Other topics Dr. Conant spoke about was a possible blood test for diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease.

There is also a gene test and the dreaded answer if one has that gene.

Medicine slows down the progression and there is not a cure.

Preventative care is important. Living a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise is the key.

MORE ON MEMORY CARE

Dr. Conant

Memory care is a specialized form of long-term care designed to meet the unique needs of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Dementia is a progressive condition that affects cognitive function, memory, and daily living activities. Memory care facilities are specifically equipped and staffed to provide a supportive environment for individuals dealing with memory-related challenges.

Understanding Dementia:

Dementia is an umbrella term for a group of conditions characterized by cognitive decline. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for a significant percentage of cases. Other types include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia, each with its own set of symptoms and progression patterns.

Key features of dementia include:

1. Memory Loss: Individuals with dementia often experience significant memory impairment. This can manifest as difficulty remembering recent events, people’s names, or the ability to follow and participate in conversations.

2. Cognitive Decline: Dementia affects cognitive functions such as reasoning, problem-solving, and decision-making. As the condition progresses, individuals may struggle with tasks that were once routine and familiar.

3. Behavioral Changes: Personality and behavior changes are common in dementia. Individuals may become agitated, anxious, or exhibit challenging behaviors. This can be distressing for both the affected individual and their caregivers.

4. Impaired Communication: Dementia can lead to difficulties in expressing thoughts and understanding language. Communication challenges may result in frustration and isolation.

The Role of Memory Care:

Memory care facilities provide a secure and structured environment that caters specifically to the needs of individuals with dementia. These facilities employ specialized staff who undergo training to understand the complexities of dementia care. The environment is designed to be dementia-friendly, with features like clear signage, soothing colors, and layouts that minimize confusion.

Key Components of Memory Care:

1. Specialized Staff: Memory care facilities have staff trained to handle the unique challenges posed by dementia. They understand the importance of maintaining a calm and consistent environment.

2. Structured Routine: Establishing a routine is crucial for individuals with dementia. Regular schedules for meals, activities, and personal care help create a sense of predictability and security.

3. Memory-enhancing Activities: Engaging activities that stimulate cognitive function are integral to memory care. These activities can include music therapy, art projects, and reminiscence activities that tap into long-term memories.

4. Safety Measures: Memory care facilities prioritize safety by implementing measures to prevent wandering, a common behavior in individuals with dementia. This may include secure outdoor spaces and monitoring systems.

5. Nutritional Support: Proper nutrition is essential for overall well-being. Memory care facilities offer specialized diets and dining assistance to ensure residents receive adequate nutrition.

6. Emotional Support: Coping with dementia can be emotionally challenging. Memory care facilities provide emotional support not only to residents but also to their families. Support groups and counseling services are often available.

Family Involvement:

Family involvement is highly encouraged in memory care. Facilities often provide opportunities for family members to participate in the care and engage in activities with their loved ones. Regular communication between the facility staff and families helps ensure a collaborative approach to care.

Conclusion:

Memory care plays a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals living with dementia. By providing a safe and supportive environment, specialized care, and engaging activities, memory care facilities aim to create a dignified and comfortable living experience for those navigating the challenges of cognitive decline. As our understanding of dementia continues to evolve, memory care will remain a crucial component in addressing the unique needs of individuals and families affected by this complex condition.

Sharon Black

Sharon Black has been writing for many years including newspapers, short stories, and as a publisher. She was born in Nebraska and has lived in Kansas most of her life. In her hometown of Smith Center, Kansas,  Willa Cather’s hometown is to the north and Bob Dole’s hometown is to the south. Sharon is a press release writer for the National Parks Arts Foundation and writes for b U n e k e  magazine. The biggest project she has accomplished is the co-writer of the TV movie Home on the Range. The movie is about the song, which is the state song of Kansas and the lawsuit surrounding it in the 1930s and finding the rightful author of the song. Sharon is distantly related to the Mississippi writer Eudora Welty.