Getting Help From Trained Nursing Professionals

Do you remember where you were when you realized you needed almost constant medical help? Life becomes less fun and less fulfilling sometimes when you struggle with ongoing medical problems, which is why nursing homes and assisted living facilities are such a valuable resource. I started focusing on finding great new places that could help me out, and I narrowed down the search quickly to include a business that was near to my home. After I moved in, I could tell that a tremendous burden had been lifted, and it was a really nice feeling. Check out this blog for more information.

Assisted Living Care For Cognitively Impaired People

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People who are living with mild cognitive impairment, also known as MCI, may be able to live independently at home but when cognitive impairment progresses, living alone may no longer be an option. If your loved one has MCI, hiring around-the-clock caregivers may be a viable option, as might moving the individual into a family member's home. These options may not be feasible, however, because of financial reasons or because of work and other commitments family members may have. Because of this, you may want to consider relocating your loved one to an assisted living community. Here are some benefits people living with MCI can expect while residing in an assisted living care community. 

May Slow Cognitive Decline

People living alone who are cognitively impaired may experience social isolation, loneliness, and depression. It is thought that loneliness and prolonged isolation may play an important role in the acceleration or progression of cognitive decline. Assisted living communities offer special programs that are designed to enhance cognition and brain health by improving the resident's memory and decreasing the progression of cognitive decline.

To help ease depression, which may be a risk factor in cognitive decline, the staff at the assisted living community encourages social engagement by promoting interactive activities such as trivia games, craft activities, exercise programs, and even trips to sporting events, cultural destinations, and shopping. When assisted living residents are able to interact with their peers who face similar challenges as them, they may be more likely to socially engage without being embarrassed about forgetfulness and memory decline.

Medication Monitoring

Certain medications, both prescription and non-prescription, can contribute to decreased cognitive function. For example, if your loved one has been prescribed pain medications, they may become confused and disoriented after taking them. In addition, antihistamines used in the treatment of allergies can also cause mild cognitive impairment, as can certain antihypertensive drugs used in the management of high blood pressure.

The assisted living staff can monitor your loved one for medication side effects such as confusion, behavioral changes, and cognitive decline. If these side effects are noticed, they can call the physician. If your loved one's medications are the cause of their cognitive decline, the doctor may either reduce the dosage or replace the offending medication with one that is less likely to cause memory problems or confusion.

If your senior loved one is cognitively impaired and is no longer able to live alone, contact an assisted living community and speak with an admissions coordinator. They will answer your questions related to services offered, payment options, room availability, and policies and procedures. For more information, go to websites regarding assisted living communities.

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20 October 2021