Assisted Living Owatonna, Memory Care Owatonna, Alzheimer's and Other Dementia

By Dan Simo

Alzheimer's disease affects over 6 million people in the U.S. and more than 26 million people worldwide. It is the sixth leading cause of death overall in the U.S. And the number is expected to double rapidly and quadruple by 2050 as 'baby-boomers' age.

In the early stages, the symptoms are loss of short-term memory of recent events and activities. It then progresses to an inability to perform basic Activities of Daily Living (ADLs).

In progressive stages, the symptoms worsen and manifest in the following ways:

• Long term memory loss

• Language breakdown

• Mood swings

Initially, the person can be looked after by close family or friends. However, as the disease progresses, professional aid and care is required. Assisted Living facilities offer loved ones suffering from Alzheimer's Disease necessary medical care in a safe, comfortable residential environment. In such facilities, expert staff can help mitigate the severity of the disease with patience, understanding and compassion. A growing number of Assisted Living facilities for Alzheimer's patients are available across the U.S., Minnesota and the Minneapolis-St.Paul metropolitan area.

Memory Care programs that cater to the Alzheimer-affected patients are growing and becoming a targeted choice for families. Memory care programs have staff who are specially trained in this expanding field which includes other forms of dementia as well. Assisted Living facilities with Memory Care units are specifically designed to provide a comfortable and safe environment for residents with memory loss conditions.

Essential Requirements of People with Alzheimer's and other Dementia Conditions

Progressive memory loss impacts a person's sense of self-identity and diminishes their feelings of self-worth. Typically, patients require:

• Caring, compassionate, well-trained staff.

• Individual attention and care for personal needs.

• A structured routine and daily activities that are familiar to the individual.

• Safe, secure, comfortable and familiar surroundings.

• Opportunities to engage in simple activities, such as preparing their own meals, going for a walk, or participating in creative arts. These can boost their self-image and enhance their feeling of productivity and worth.

• Simple outdoor activities, such as walking or light exercise, gardening or bird watching.

Qualities of a Good Assisted Living Facility with Memory Care:

• Cleanliness of the facility and Patient hygiene - you can observe the grooming of the residents and note the facility grounds.

• Well-Trained, 24-hour staffing - An experienced and compassionate staff is paramount. Inquire about staff reviews as well as the type of continued training in which the staff is required to partake.

• Continuous monitoring of each resident.

• Environs - A 'homey' feel. A well designed use of space and quality choice of decor should be noticeable. Nothing melancholy or monotonous.

• Activities - Activities of Daily Living and engagement in extracurricular activities should be balanced with intermittent time for rest.

• Meals - Nutritious, well balanced meals, supplemented by snacks; ideally individually prepared.

Assisted Living | Memory Care, Owatonna, Minnesota

• Valleyview of Owatonna is committed to providing the highest level of service and care for senior living in an atmosphere that promotes total well-being and personal fulfillment. We specialize in independent living, assisted living and memory care facilities.