Purposeful Living: How Tailored Care Supports Aging Adults in Memory Care

Eartha Kitt famously said, “Aging has a wonderful beauty, and we should have respect for that.” There’s so much beauty in growing older, from seeing your first grandchild being born to celebrating your fiftieth wedding anniversary with your spouse. It’s undeniably wonderful to check off the years on the calendar, recall warm memories, and gather with family, year after year.

However, growing older can also bring challenges, like difficulty with memory, something seen in as many as 10% of all seniors. While these often can’t be avoided, there are ways to make the transition into our elder years a bit smoother. Memory care communities, or neighborhoods, are one such resource. When you think about a memory care community, you might envision a place where elderly individuals live, surrounded by skilled caregivers. That can be true, but memory care is so much more than that. It’s about recognizing that every memory carries significance – and even when those memories start to blur, the person behind them remains.

Let’s explore a few ways in which a memory care community can support your loved one as they get older, no matter how much their memories have begun to fade.

The Personal Connection in Caregiving

Perhaps the most profound benefit of memory care is the personal connection it provides. Just imagine the comfort of knowing the people who care for you truly understand you.

In a memory care community, caregivers take the time to learn about their residents – their pasts, passions, and even the little quirks that make them who they are. This connection goes beyond the surface level. It’s about forming relationships that are built on trust and genuine care.

Tailoring Activities for Enrichment

In many ways, the brain is like a muscle, needing to be worked daily in order to stay strong. Activities play a significant role in purposeful living within a memory care neighborhood. For them to be effective and engaging, however, these activities must be meaningful, catering to preferences and abilities.

Just consider the magic of a familiar song that takes a resident back to a cherished moment, or an art project that allows them to express themselves creatively.

Here are some activities that provide a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment, and in doing so, remind residents that their lives hold value and potential:

Art and Creativity: Whether it’s dancing, painting, or sculpting, art offers a canvas for self-expression.

Music Therapy: Music harnesses the power of melodies to evoke memories.

Gardening: This is one of the best ways to connect with nature and nurturing life.

Memory Games: These are great for engaging the mind and promoting cognitive health.

Creating a Supportive Environment

A crucial aspect of personalized memory care is the environment itself, the creation of spaces that are safe, comfortable, and familiar. Thoughtfully designed layouts, soothing color palettes, and personalized decor all contribute to an atmosphere that feels like home.

Familiarity instills comfort, so personalized touches, such as family photographs or favorite keepsakes, serve as gentle reminders of their life stories for seniors in memory care communities.

Supporting Independence With Compassion

While memory care provides necessary support, it also champions independence. Encouraging residents to engage in tasks they enjoy or excel at fosters a sense of autonomy.

Whether it’s cooking a favorite recipe or tending to a garden, these moments of independence are celebrated. Memory care communities strike a balance between assistance and empowerment.

Your Path to Purposeful Living Starts Here

At Priority Life Care, we believe that every individuals’ story deserves to be heard and honored. The Priority Life Care program for residents living with dementia, called Along the Journey, was created as a holistic approach, and support for all those involved, including residents, their families, and caregivers. You can find more information on Along the Journey on the PLC Blog.

Reach out to Priority Life Care today and discover a community that values each person’s past, present, and future. Your loved one’s purposeful living starts here.

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Testimonials

I have visited Brentwood many times. Every time that I am there I am amazed ...
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Steve
I have visited Brentwood many times. Every time that I am there I am amazed at the level of care that I see the residents receive from all the staff. I see the staff talking to the residents and calling them by name and taking the time to chat with them. This might seem like a minor thing but I can tell you, it doesn't happen at a lot of other places. They always have activities planed and there is always a happy group of people participating. Great job Jennifer Kedik and the entire staff.
Steve
Steve
I went in with a family member for a tour, to look for an apartment ...
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Julianna
I went in with a family member for a tour, to look for an apartment for another family member. I could not believe how nice and kind the staff were to eachother, and kind when overheard talking to the residents. The rooms were clean , and the building was well kept, We will definitely be back to Brentwood at Niles!
Julianna
Julianna
I just left from visiting my Mother who is a resident in Brentwood's Memory Care @...
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Tammy
I just left from visiting my Mother who is a resident in Brentwood's Memory Care @Niles . I have to say ,I was happy overall before, but since Brentwood has been under new owners, I can tell that it's even better. My siblings and I agree . Everything is clean, the staff are very helpful and so sweet to my Mom and just feels more organized and the staff look happy. I have been a nurse for 32 years so my expectations are high and I feel that my Mom is receiving the best care she deserves. I know no place is perfect but feel reassured and confident @this point .
Tammy
Tammy
We are so impressed with the fabulous care my dad is getting at Brentwood in ...
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Nancy
We are so impressed with the fabulous care my dad is getting at Brentwood in Niles. The staff are all saints! They are so helpful and sweet! My dad moved in last weekend, Sept. 3, and is very happy and comfortable in his new facility. We could not have asked for a better place. I'm 2 1/2 hours away and my brothers are both 1 1/2 hour away. We feel so much at ease knowing that he is in excellent care. Keep up the fantastic work staff! Give each other a HUGE pat on the back and say "a job well done!"
Nancy
Nancy
My husband and I toured this very nice facility yesterday with Jennifer Kedik, who couldn't ...
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Kimberly
My husband and I toured this very nice facility yesterday with Jennifer Kedik, who couldn't have been more accommodating and helpful. We are looking for a place for my mom. If it comes to the point where her live-in caregiver can no longer stay with her, I would love to have Mom go to Brentwood. It's clean and light, the food looked delicious and all of the staff was friendly. Residents seemed happy and well cared for. We were impressed!
Kimberly
Kimberly
Brentwood is FAMILY!!! From the staff, to the residents to the family members. I cannot ...
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Debbie
Brentwood is FAMILY!!! From the staff, to the residents to the family members. I cannot express the appreciation of this WONDERFUL organization in helping our Seniors remain safe and happy. Thank you Brentwood!
Debbie
Debbie

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