When a close relative is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia, it brings both relief and worry. The uncertainty around forgetfulness and repetitive behaviors gives way to questions about the future: How quickly will the disease progress? What challenges lie ahead? How can they be effectively protected, monitored, and kept comfortable? Specialized memory care may be the solution. Here are six signs that indicate when this type of care may be necessary.

1. Difficulty with Daily Activities When a senior loved one starts struggling with tasks that were once easy, it may be time for memory care. Signs include:

• Housekeeping Issues: Unwashed dishes, dirty clothes, dusty furniture, and accumulated garbage or mail suggest they can no longer manage household chores.

• Neglecting Food Needs: Lack of fresh food, moldy items, and irregular eating habits indicate difficulty in managing their nutrition.

• Inappropriate Clothing Choices: Dressing unsuitably for the weather, such as wearing a summer jacket in winter, shows a lack of environmental awareness.

2. Neglecting Personal Hygiene If your loved one has body odor or plaque buildup on their teeth, it may indicate they are struggling with basic personal care tasks like bathing or changing clothes.

3. Ignoring Medication and Doctor’s Appointments Seniors with dementia often forget to take medications or miss important medical checkups. Memory care communities provide medical administration and health assessments to ensure their well-being.

4. Wandering Seniors may forget their home location or how to return home, leading to dangerous wandering. Memory care facilities offer secure environments with constant supervision to prevent this risk.

5. Disturbing Changes in Personality Behavioral issues like sundowner syndrome, where confusion or agitation increases in the evening, indicate a need for professional care from a memory care community.

6. Caregiver Burnout Caring for someone with dementia requires round-the-clock attention, which can lead to caregiver stress and health issues. When the primary caregiver becomes overwhelmed, it’s time to consider memory care.

These signs are critical in determining when memory care is necessary. Diseases like Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia progress at different rates, so anticipating the care needs of your loved one ensures they receive the appropriate care.

If your loved one is isolated from friends and relatives, they might benefit from moving to a nearby memory care unit. At Alpine View Lodge in San Diego County, we provide comprehensive social, emotional, physical, and spiritual care. Interested in learning more? Contact us to discover the excellent memory care services offered at Alpine View Lodge.