Author: villageatsugarland

What Are Secured Memory Care Units?

Secured memory care units are specialized areas within senior living campuses, hospitals, or nursing facilities, designed to provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals with dementia. These spaces prioritize security due to the tendency of people with dementia to wander, become disoriented, or feel agitated if they get lost. Utilizing innovative technology, human-centered design, and specially trained staff, these units are tailored to meet the unique needs of residents with memory-related challenges. Protocols are in place to minimize potential hazards, ensuring a safer living environment.

Benefits of Secured Memory Care Units

One of the primary benefits of secured memory care is the enhanced safety it provides to individuals with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. This secure environment not only protects residents but also offers peace of mind to their loved ones. Family members can rest assured knowing that their loved ones are in a setting designed to meet their specific needs. Additionally, the research-driven design of secured memory care units contributes significantly to the comfort and safety of residents.

As Dr. Julie L. Masters, a gerontology and counseling professor at the University of Nebraska Omaha, states, “Providing a safe space for movement is crucial. The desire to move is often present, and having a secure area to do so can benefit residents who may need to pace or walk around.” This freedom of movement within a safe environment can reduce anxiety and empower individuals with dementia to maintain as much independence as possible, fostering a sense of confidence and pride.

Dangers of Unsecured Environments

Unsecured environments can be particularly hazardous for individuals with Alzheimer’s and other dementias due to the risk of wandering or elopement. Studies show that three in five people with dementia are prone to wandering, which can lead to dangerous situations such as walking into traffic, falling, ingesting harmful substances, or becoming lost. Dr. Masters explains that brain changes can impair a person’s navigation and visual guidance, making it easier for them to become disoriented. Simple needs, like searching for food or a restroom, can trigger wandering, as can the urge to fulfill past routines like going to work.

Without a secure environment, an individual with dementia could easily wander away from a community, hospital, or home, putting themselves in potentially life-threatening situations.

Safety Features in Secured Memory Care Units

While wandering cannot always be prevented, secured memory care units employ a range of safety measures to protect residents. These communities provide a safe yet dignified environment through the use of modern techniques, including:

– Human-centered design

– Advanced technology and monitoring systems

– Specially trained staff members

 Key Questions to Ask When Touring Secured Memory Care Units

When touring a secured memory care unit or community, it’s crucial to ask specific questions that address your loved one’s needs. According to experts, each person with dementia has unique requirements, so it’s important to consider how a community’s design and safety features align with your loved one’s situation. If you notice unique design elements during your tour, inquire about them to gauge the staff’s knowledge and understanding of dementia care.

Though choosing the right memory care community can be challenging, a free consultation with The Village at Sugar Land is important. Schedule a lunch tour and learn more about our program, activities, meal plans to best meet your loved one’s needs. Reach us at [email protected] or call 281-729-8800

Summer is a time for sunshine and outdoor fun, but for seniors, it also brings potential health risks like heatstroke and dehydration. Preparation is key to ensuring your elderly loved one enjoys the season safely. Here are seven essential tips to help them stay cool and healthy during the hot summer months.

 1. Stay Hydrated: Dehydration is a common issue among seniors during the summer, leading to dizziness, fatigue, and headaches. In severe cases, it can result in hospitalization and serious health conditions like bladder infections or kidney stones. Ensure your loved one drinks plenty of fluids, particularly:

• Water

• 100% juice drinks (such as pure orange juice or apple juice)

• Sports drinks high in electrolytes

• Coconut water

Avoid beverages that can cause dehydration, including alcohol and caffeinated drinks.

 2. Wear Appropriate Clothing: Proper clothing is essential for keeping cool and avoiding sunburn or heat exhaustion. Encourage your loved one to wear:

•  Light Colored clothes

•  Lightweight fabrics

•  Loose-fitting garments

• Hats and sunglasses for added protection

These choices help the body stay cool and prevent overheating.

 3. Stay Indoors During Peak Heat Hours: The hottest part of the day is typically between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Encourage your loved one to stay indoors during these hours. To keep their indoor environment cool, consider the following tips:

• Close windows and blinds to block out the sun

• Take cool baths or showers

•  Sleep in the coolest room with light linens

•  Turn off artificial lighting and electronics to reduce heat buildup

These measures help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses.

 4. Monitor the Heat Index and Dew Point: It’s not just the temperature that matters; the heat index and dew point are also critical. These measurements indicate how hot it feels when humidity is factored in. The higher the dew point, the muggier it feels, which can significantly impact your loved one’s comfort.

• Dew point 55 or below Comfortable or dry

• Dew point 5565: Muggy or sticky

•  Dew point 65 or above Very hot and damp

By monitoring these factors, you can better assess whether it’s safe for your loved one to be outside.

 5. Slow Down and Avoid Overexertion:In the summer heat, even simple activities can be exhausting for seniors. Encourage your loved one to take it easy and avoid strenuous outdoor tasks like gardening, lawn care, or home repairs, especially when the humidity or dew point is high. Slowing down helps conserve energy and reduces the risk of heat exposure.

 6. Eat Healthy, Hydrating Foods: Hydration isn’t just about drinking fluids; certain fruits and vegetables can also help keep your loved one nourished and hydrated. Consider incorporating the following into their diet:

• Hydrating vegetables: Cucumbers, romaine lettuce, celery, radishes, zucchini

• Hydrating fruits: Watermelon, strawberries, grapefruit, pineapple, starfruit

These foods make great snacks or side dishes and contribute to overall hydration.

 7. Check In Regularly

Regular check-ins are crucial during hot weather. Whether through phone calls or visits, ensure your loved one is staying hydrated and comfortable. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Ask about their water intake and make sure they have enough fluids.

Check if they’re spending time outside and using sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.

Ensure they have air conditioning or fans to keep their living space cool.

If your loved one is struggling to pay for cooling costs, the National Council on Aging offers a list of energy assistance programs, including the Low Income Energy Assistance Program, which specifically helps seniors with energy and cooling expenses.

By following these seven summer heat safety tips, you can help your elderly loved one enjoy the season while staying safe and healthy. With a little preparation and regular check-ins, they can have a fun, sun-filled summer without the risks of heat-related illnesses.