Challenges of having a loved one in a memory care facility

On Behalf of | Feb 4, 2025 | nursing home negligence

The realization that a loved one has to move into a memory care facility is often daunting. The immediate focus is on finding a suitable facility that can provide the care the resident needs. Once the resident moves in, the focus becomes making sure they’re being treated well and that their needs are being met. 

One of the biggest challenges of having a loved one in memory care is that they may not always be able to speak out about what’s going on. Instead, watchful visitors may be the only reliable way to spot things that aren’t being done properly. 

Memory care residents thrive on familiarity

Residents of a memory care facility thrive on their schedule being consistent and their environment remaining familiar. Changes in either of these could lead to the resident having a difficult time. It’s possible that the signs associated with those changes could mimic the fear that can occur when they’re the subjects of abuse. 

Memory care residents have limited memory

Wandering and elopement are two common issues that occur in memory care facilities. The limited memory of these residents can make them a danger to themselves, which is why having an attentive and well-trained staff in these facilities is important. 

When a resident tends to wander, they should be handled very carefully. The key isn’t to restrain the resident because many forms of restraint, such as chemical restraint, are considered abusive. Instead, the staff should be able to redirect the resident so they can continue to live a full life while they’re in the facility. 

Action is critical when things are amiss

Anyone who has a loved one in a memory care facility should ensure they’re watching for signs that something is amiss. Abuse of people in memory care facilities is a serious matter, so it should always be addressed swiftly. These cases can be complex, so having someone on your side who can assist with getting the case together may be beneficial. Taking swift action through a comprehensive case is critical because these matters must be filed within time limits set by state law.