Signs It’s Time for Memory Care

When is the right time to talk about Memory Care?

At Notre Dame Health Care, our Harmony Memory Care programs provide a holistic approach to care regardless of disease or impairment type. Dedicated staff members use the foundations of habilitative care to help individuals achieve optimal function by focusing on their skill set. By sharing life experiences, knowledge, and expertise our compassionate care teams help residents, loved ones, and caregivers enhance personal enjoyment and quality of life.

But how do you know when it is time to begin the process of moving a loved one into a Memory Care Unit? In many cases such as Alzheimer’s or dementia, signs and symptoms unfold over a period of time, making it unclear when to seek additional help. At Notre Dame Health Care, we suggest starting the process of considering support early in the disease progression. It’s important to gain information and knowledge, as well as tour facilities, so when the time is right you feel more ready.

Studies show that it’s better to transition individuals from home into a memory care program before more dangerous signs and symptoms of dementia, Alzheimer’s or memory impairment surface. If you’re looking for clear signs to help make your decision, please consider these:

• Changes in behavior
• A decline in physical health
• Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s, dementia, or another dementia-related illness
• Incontinence which progresses over time
• Confusion and disorientation that can affect physical safety
• Caregiver stress

At Notre Dame Health Care we offer memory care programs at each of our facilities: du Lac Assisted Living – Harmony Memory Care Community and our Long Term Care – Harmony Village. Each community offers specialized services and trained staff to address the unique needs of each of our residents. All Notre Dame Health Care employees participate in dementia care training, and some have also achieved certification by the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners as Certified Dementia Practitioners™. Contact us today to schedule a tour and to find out more about our services. For information about our memory care program at du Lac Assisted Living Residence, please call Phoenix at (508) 852-5800 x2105; or at our Long Term Care and Rehabilitation Center, please call MariAnn at (508) 852-5800 x3112.