Understanding the different types of care available for seniors, especially those living with dementia, can be challenging. At Kensington-Evergreen communities, we know how important it is to find the right environment for your loved one. Kensington communities in Fort Madison, IA, and Hastings, NE, offer both assisted living and memory care services in and focus on providing joyful living and expert support for seniors with varying care needs. But what exactly sets memory care apart from assisted living? Let’s explore the differences to help you make the best decision for your loved one.
Assisted Living: A Broader Focus
Assisted living caters to a wider range of senior needs. While it does provide support for daily living activities, it’s not exclusively focused on dementia care. Assisted living at The Kensington in Cumberland, MD, Fort Madison, Hastings and Evergreen in Dickinson, ND provides a higher level of independence for seniors who need some assistance but do not require specialized memory care. Depending on the needs of a specific individual, either assisted living or memory care could be appropriate. To determine which care service is the best fit, our Director of Nursing will perform an assessment that takes individual needs and preferences into account. From there, we can recommend the best option for you or your loved one. It’s possible that individuals with mild memory loss can live and thrive in an assisted living environment. What’s most important, however, is that the individual is in the safest and best possible environment for them.
Memory Care: A Specific Need
Memory care is a specialized type of senior care tailored specifically for individuals living with various forms of dementia. Both The Kensington in Fort Madison and Hastings offer in-house memory care neighborhoods. Residents of these neighborhoods receive the most comprehensive and compassionate care possible. Our neighborhoods provide a homelike environment where residents can feel safe and supported. Memory care is most appropriate for those with a diagnosis of dementia, or in situations where family and friends know that living more independently is not safe. Memory care provides the best and safest environment for those with memory loss due to dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease.
Key Features of Memory Care Services:
Choosing memory care at The Kensington means families can be confident that their loved ones are receiving compassionate, expert care in a setting that values each individual’s dignity and quality of life.When seeking memory care for your loved one, there are a few features you should look for:
Expert Care:
Memory care staff should be specifically trained to provide compassionate assistance at every stage of dementia. Due to the nature of dementia, it is vital that staff members receive ongoing, continuous training on how to assist those living with the disease. In turn, this provides residents with the best care possible. The expert caregivers at The Kensington do receive specialized training, with many of our caregivers becoming Certified Dementia Providers. Our staff’s specialized training in dementia care ensures that residents receive the best possible support. We stay abreast of the latest advancements in dementia care, applying this knowledge to benefit our residents.
A Homelike and Secure Environment with Great Safety Features:
At each of our memory care neighborhoods, we balance safety with a welcoming atmosphere. Our memory care neighborhoods do not feel like a forgotten wing of a larger building. They are homelike and cozy, with a variety of amenities for residents to enjoy. The areas are secure and safe, especially for individuals who tend to wander.
Life-Enriching Opportunities:
Speaking of activities, those in memory care enjoy a variety of group and one-on-one activities, as well as scenic bus rides and outings in the community at large. Allowing residents opportunities to stay active and engaged does wonders for their well-being, and helps them to connect with the world around them. We offer a range of activities designed to engage and stimulate the minds of those living with dementia. From music therapy to cognitive games, our programs cater to the diverse interests and abilities of our residents. No matter what they are interested in or their hobbies are, we offer something for everyone.
Personalized Care Plans:
Recognizing that dementia affects each person differently, our care is tailored to meet individual needs, ensuring the highest quality of life for each resident. No matter which stage they’re in, or at what rate their disease is progressing, we strive to always meet our residents right where they are.
Nutrition and Wellness Focus:
Good nutrition is vital for health, particularly for those with dementia. Our culinary options are not only delicious but also cater to the nutritional needs of our residents, promoting overall wellness. Eating is a wonderful social opportunity and a time that should be enjoyable. We aim to provide a wonderful culinary experience for all residents, regardless of their needs.
Family Involvement and Support and Resources.
The Kensington encourages and facilitates family involvement in the care process. Regular communication, family traditions events, and educational resources ensure that families are well-informed and actively engaged in their loved one’s care. We utilize LifeLoop, which helps keep families connected to their loved ones. We provide ongoing support not just for our residents but also for their families. From support groups to educational resources, we ensure that the families of our residents are well-equipped to understand and navigate the journey of dementia care.
And if you aren’t ready to make a permanent move yet – no problem. We’re still committed to helping families who are currently providing hands-on care. When space allows, a Respite Stay may be appropriate, and our communities even offer day stay services. Reach out to us for more information.
Contact The Kensington today to learn more and schedule a personal tour.
