All About Memory Care

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As a caregiver to older adults or parents, the move to memory care can be a delicate transition. You may have a list of questions, and you want to ensure that your loved one is both comfortable and receives the support they need. Here is a helpful guide to memory care services and important things to keep in mind:

What is a memory care program?

Memory care programs, like the one offered at Fountain View Village in Fountain Hills, AZ, are specially designed services and residences for seniors managing Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related conditions. They feature secure, comfortable common areas just for memory care residents, private living units, and programming and schedules to promote healthy daily activities. 

What are the benefits of memory care programs?

There are many benefits of memory care programs for seniors with dementia-related needs like Alzheimer’s. Memory care programs offer structure and predictability in everyday life, activities and support staff specifically catering to memory-related needs and care, and reliable individualized attention in a dignified, secure environment. Memory care programs, like other residence options at senior living communities, also offer the convenience of meal plans, housekeeping, health services, and 24/7 staff.

Memory care programs also allow adult-children caretakers to return to the non-caregiving relationship you and your loved one previously shared, which can be a healthy development for both of your well-beings. 

How do I know when it’s time to move to memory care?

It can be difficult to know when it’s time for your loved one to move to memory care. There are many different signifiers and signs of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related conditions. Experiences will vary from person to person. Worrying changes in behavior are a common indication, such as lack of interest in daily activities or hobbies, social regression, and difficulty with daily activities like using the phone or microwave. Your loved one’s medical provider can also offer recommendations and opinions on the best path forward. 

Another area to keep in mind is your own well-being as a caretaker. If you are feeling burnout or frequently overwhelmed, it may be time to rely on additional support. 

How do I talk to a loved one about memory care?

Broaching the topic of memory care with a parent or loved one can feel difficult. For a productive conversation, approach the topic as a conversation and discussion. Listen to your loved one’s concerns, take the time to understand any reservations they have, and help them find answers and solutions to their questions. Focus on the benefits that memory care programs provide, like daily programming and social opportunities. Highlight amenities your loved one would enjoy and what they would gain with a memory care program.

What are memory care services like at Fountain View Village?

Fountain View Village in Fountain Hills, AZ, provides memory care services that promote accomplishment, dignity, and comfort in the daily lives of our residents managing Alzheimer’s Disease and other related dementia. We’re here to support you before the transition to memory care, during, and after, with person-first programs and services that recognize and focus on the lived experience of each resident and champions their abilities.

Our memory care program includes three unique highlights: Heartfelt Connections, Obie Projectors, and our Gardening Program.

Heartfelt Connections

An LCS exclusive program, Heartfelt Connections is a customizable memory care program for seniors specifically designed for those managing Alzheimer’s and other related dementias. Our skilled and experienced team focuses on the abilities and strengths of each resident, developing custom activities and programming based on their lived experience. Using input from friends and family, we create a daily routine that encourages a healthy circadian rhythm and celebrates everyday accomplishments. 

Obie Projectors

Obie for Seniors, an award-winning projection technology first used in classrooms, is a fun and engaging activity that encourages cognitive stimulation and activates motor skills. Obie technology promotes hand-eye coordination by projecting hand-motion-activated games onto any flat surface including tables, floors and walls, and is played through motions such as tapping and touching. Obie for Seniors offers a suite of different games adaptable to support a range of cognitive, social, and physical abilities.

Fountain View Village’s Gardening Program

Fountain View Village’s therapeutic gardening program for seniors encourages the healing power of nature for our residents. The horticulture enrichment memory care activities include our vibrant indoor garden and biweekly classes led by visiting educators. A diverse curriculum includes gardening, culinary, and art classes. 

Learn More About Fountain View

Our supportive and compassionate staff are available to help you and your loved one through the transition to memory care. Contact us to learn more and schedule a tour of our safe, secure, and comfortable memory care residents.