Aging in place isn’t something that people often think of when it comes to memory care. After all, memory care patients require a great deal of assistance, and many assume that a diagnosis of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease or another form of memory impairment mean that they will eventually have to move into a facility – which doesn’t sound very “homelike.” But according to Jennifer Trout, Executive Director of Bridges® by EPOCH at Hingham, opportunities to age in place do exist for individuals requiring memory care.
Many people think of aging in place as staying in your family home, or a place you’ve lived for a long time. At Bridges® by EPOCH at Hingham, we take the approach that aging in place means being able to remain in a place you’re familiar with, and that you’re comfortable with, while receiving the very best possible memory care available.”
Since cognitive impairments like dementia are progressive, the symptoms generally get worse over time, requiring higher and higher levels of long-term care. Many caregivers aren’t equipped to handle the radical changes these types of diseases bring, and oftentimes a family home isn’t a safe environment for an individual with these conditions.
“The most important aspect of aging in place is the idea of choice, and that the individual is given the freedom to receive the care that they need in an environment that they have chosen,” says Trout. “We take that to heart at Bridges® by EPOCH at Hingham and treat our community as a home first, care provider second. That means when our residents choose to come here, they are making this their home, and our number one goal is to make sure that, no matter how their health needs change, this will always remain a safe, familiar, comfortable home where they’re able to live their life to the fullest.”
Here are just some ways that memory care communities like Bridges® by EPOCH at Hingham allow seniors with memory impairments to age in place:
It allows seniors to live as independently as possible.
The best memory care provides a perfect balance of independence and safety for the individual. These diseases run the gamut of abilities, from individuals in the very early stages who still have lots of autonomy to individuals in the final stages who require around-the-clock care. Many communities aren’t able to handle all levels of care while allowing for individual independence. Bridges® by EPOCH at Hingham was built exclusively to meet the needs of seniors living with dementia and memory impairment at any stage, meaning that no matter how little or how much care is required, your loved one will be able to receive the assistance they need while enjoying the independence they crave. A compassionate team, easy-to-navigate households and fulfilling programming designed to your loved one’s interest promote fulfillment, joy and dignity through all stages of memory loss.
It provides a stimulating social life.
When living on their own or with a sole caregiver, individuals with dementia can easily become isolated, leading to boredom, depression and worsened symptoms. That all changes in a memory care community like Bridges® by EPOCH at Hingham. First, there’s an entire community of other individuals who are looking for friends and fun, plus a compassionate and engaged staff, meaning your loved one will have as much social engagement and interaction as they like. A full calendar of social activities and events means that boredom doesn’t really have a chance of taking hold, because there’s always something to do. Memory care programming involves games and activities that help lessen cognition impairment by exercising brains in a fun and engaging way, helping your loved one retain their abilities. In fact, many residents who come to Bridges® by EPOCH at Hingham actually have improved symptoms, since they’re provided the activities and stimulation they need to be fulfilled.
It’s safe.
One of the reasons why memory care communities are so important is that family members don’t have to be on constant alert for their loved one. The environment has been designed by dementia experts to be completely secure, reducing the risk of wandering and confusion. Hallways and other features are wide, easy to navigate and have visual cues that help reduce anxiety and promote confidence. A professionally trained staff is available 24/7, as is security. Plus, unlike an individual home, you don’t have to shell out big bucks in order to make sure your loved one has all the safety features they need. Communities like Bridges® by EPOCH at Hingham are equipped with state-of-the-art technologies and safety features like emergency pull systems in every room, meaning that no matter what, help is just a few moments away.
It provides assistance for family members.
Memory care communities such as Bridges® by EPOCH at Hingham understand that memory loss isn’t a journey just for the individual – it affects the family, too. We provide monthly support groups, caregiving support and other resources to help family members understand the disease, as well as gain tips for the unique challenges facing them. Memory care communities also provide relief and peace of mind for family members, which is no small thing. By providing a safe, secure, engaging, caring and stimulating environment for a loved one with memory loss, family members can relax a little, knowing that their loved one is being cared for in the very best possible way.
If you would like more information about how memory care communities like Bridges® by EPOCH at Hingham allow seniors to age in place, contact us at 781.749.7114.
Exceptional Care. Fulfilling Lifestyle.
Bridges® by EPOCH at Hingham provides assisted living and memory care that is comfortable, positive, safe and engaging. Exclusively dedicated to caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia or memory impairment, we’ve created a wellness-focused lifestyle that promotes dignity and individual preferences. Our memory care professionals receive specialized and ongoing training designed to help residents maximize their independence in a secure, calm environment – making a truly positive impact on the lives of our residents each and every day.
Dedicated Memory Care
No matter what level of care or service is needed, residents and families can rest assured that our programs address the various stages of memory decline, allowing residents the opportunity to age in place.
Personalized Services
At Bridges® by EPOCH at Hingham, our services are designed to recognize and adapt to the unique challenges and individuality of each resident, while ensuring comfort and safety. We believe in a full-service approach to care and provide a high level of personalized attention for every resident through all stages of memory loss.
Call us today at 781.749.7114 to learn more about Bridges® by EPOCH at Hingham or to schedule a personal tour.