Normal forgetfulness is part of the aging process and usually begins in middle age. However, there is a great difference between occasionally forgetting your keys and dementia. People with dementia cannot retrieve information and in most cases, lose the ability of how to remember. Dementia can be a variety of diagnoses. The most common is Alzheimer’s, a severe, progressive loss of recent memory and thinking ability.

A few factors to watch for: a senior who suddenly stops doing a longtime hobby or withdraws. Sudden weight loss. Change in grooming habits. A house in disorder. An inability to follow conversations. If you suspect that your loved one’s memory loss is disrupting their daily routine, it could be time to seek medical advice.

A quality Memory Care program provides countless benefits such as safety, nutrition and professional support. Activities and programs provide mental stimulation and interaction, especially when drawn from that individual’s life experiences. Therapeutic tools such as music and art can awaken the senses and provide moments of personal success. In addition, many Memory Care residents benefit from the enriching ambiance of a senior living community that also includes Independent Living and Personal Care.