Memory Care Mississippi

Memory care in Mississippi

In the state of Mississippi, there are about 30 memory care communities, as well as assisted living facilities that have memory care units available. Memory care centers can be found in the following locations: Jackson, Gulfport, Hattiesburg, New Orleans, Mobile, and Memphis. All the memory care facilities in the state are regulated by the Department of Health. Prospective residents benefit from free assistance with identifying the best center for their needs and budget.

Admittance criteria might vary from one community to the other, but there are some general guidelines all communities follow. Aside from the confirmed diagnosis of dementia, seniors must meet the minimum age requirements, which varies between 55 and 62. Any type of dementia is accepted, such as Lewy Body dementia, frontotemporal dementia, vascular dementia, and Alzheimer's disease. Other criteria to be considered include: current impairments, physical and mental health, income, marital status, level of independence, assistance with ADLs.

Not all applications are accepted, as memory care communities have specific reasons for refusing certain seniors. They do not accept those who are unable to direct their own care, mentally unstable seniors who might pose a threat to themselves or others, and those who require long-term skilled nursing care. The same goes for those who suffer from infectious conditions, have severe cognitive impairments, require hospice care, or are bedridden. If a senior requires a type of care that the respective community cannot offer, the application might be refused as well.

Assessments are planned and undertaken for all admitted residents, so that both current needs and challenges can be identified. An experienced physician handles these, often with the assistance of a registered nurse. Among the most common aspects analyzed, there are: treatment schedule, personality changes, co-existing conditions, physical and mental impairments, emotional status, behavior, etc. The results are used to develop custom care plans, which are updated regularly and after major health events.

Average cost of memory care in Mississippi

In the state of Mississippi, the average cost of memory care is around $4,400 per month, which is considerably lower than the national median of $5,000. Compared to neighboring states, such as Louisiana and Tennessee, Mississippi has more affordable memory care communities. On the other hand, Alabama and Arkansas have cheaper rates for such kind of long-term care solutions.

Within the state of Mississippi, memory care has varying fees. The most expensive memory care communities are available in New Orleans, with an average monthly cost of $5,800. Mobile has the most affordable centers, averaging at $4,000 per month. Memory care costs more than in-home care, home health care, adult day care, and assisted living. It is only surpassed by nursing home care, with an average monthly cost of $6,800.

The effective management of dementia in memory care

Dementia is often diagnosed in senior adults over the age of 65, affecting their ability to function. As the condition progresses, seniors might have difficulties remembering recent events, conversations or even names. Mental health issues arise to complete the clinical picture, with apathy and depression being the most common. Given all these changes, most seniors consider alternative living solutions, such as memory care. These communities are best equipped to handle their needs.

The progression of dementia leads to additional manifestations, such as language impairment, confusion, and disorientation. Seniors might struggle with poor judgment and behavioral changes, the overall quality of life suffering as a result. Unfortunately, all of these changes increase the risk of accidents, so constant monitoring becomes a must. The transition into memory care is encouraged by relatives and friends. Support and specialized care are available to all residents, not to mention the structured routine and numerous socialization opportunities.

When the symptoms of dementia begin to interfere with everyday activities, seniors should begin to look into alternative living solutions. Many of them have their family as caregivers, but one must remember dementia will progress to the point where complete assistance is needed. In advanced stages, seniors might have difficulties walking and eating, requiring specialized care. On the other hand, looking after someone who suffers from dementia can lead to burnout. The move into memory care is beneficial for both the senior in question and his/her caregivers.

Dementia manifestations are often times attributed to the physiological aging process. Its progression makes it clear, however, that something is wrong. A diagnosis becomes imperative, especially since the daily routine is affected. Confused and forgetful, many seniors are asking one question after the other, without feeling reassured. They are no longer helped by otherwise familiar settings and their clumsiness can often lead to accidents. Other manifestations might add to the difficulties already experienced.

Forgetfulness becomes worse over time, reaching the point where both recent and distant memories cannot be retrieved. With both the physical and mental health suffering, seniors might need complete assistance. They might deal with anxiety and depression, becoming withdrawn. Many of them have hallucinations and mood swings, suffering from personality changes and emotional upturns. Monitoring is a must, not only to prevent accidents but also to lift their spirits.

By opting for memory care, seniors can keep their condition in check. They thrive in the structured environment, with access to specialized care and assistance. The daily routine is designed to benefit their needs, with the staff being more than pleased to provide support. In addition, they are able to handle the challenges of dementia, as well as some of the tasks that are difficult to perform alone. Both family members and friends notice the positive changes, feeling comforted by the thought that their loved ones are well taken care of.

The staff is trained to handle dementia seniors, having both the necessary experience and knowledge to deal with difficult situations. Seniors feel better knowing they receive support from caring personnel. They have access to everything needed, including a structured living environment, tailored services and amenities, quality care and assistance. Given all these benefits, they are able to enjoy themselves and reduced the risk of depression. Socialization is made possible, with countless activities offered on a daily basis to promote interaction.

Options for memory care in Mississippi

When it comes to alternative living, memory care communities offer the best of everything. From the experienced staff to the quality care, they help dementia seniors stay in control of what happens. In addition, such facilities offer access to emotional support, which becomes invaluable for someone who deals with advanced dementia. Even though seniors might consider other solutions, such as continuous care or assisted living, it is worth remembering that their needs are best met within memory care.

Memory care is available in certain assisted living facilities as well, with similar care and services being included. Trained staff welcomes dementia seniors, helping them manage their condition and handle the challenges their condition brings. These units offer a structured living setting, with a calm environment and specialized assistance. Just like in regular memory care communities, seniors benefit from a wide range of safety features. As a result, the risk of injuries or wandering is brought down to a minimum. They might also benefit from limited healthcare, which is often offered by third-party providers.

It is far from easy to leave the lifestyle you are accustomed to and start afresh in a memory care community. Nonetheless, when it comes to such decisions, you have to weigh the benefits versus the potential disadvantages. Memory care communities offer structured routines, adapted living environments, quality care and assistance. Dementia seniors have access to a wide range of therapies, being able to work on their skills and delay the progression of their condition. In assisted living facilities, couples also have the possibility to stay close to each other, despite benefitting from different levels of care.

Services offered in memory care in Mississippi

Each memory care community offers a package of services, which are tailored to the needs of dementia seniors. These services have been chosen with care, including with consideration to the challenges faced every day. They are helping seniors feel safer and less confused, reducing the risk of mental health issues. With chores no longer being an issue, residents have more time available to enjoy their daily routine.

Upon arriving in a memory care community, seniors might feel discomforted by the major transition. They might deal with a permanent state of agitation, finding it difficult to adjust to their new home. Luckily, the staff is there to facilitate their adjustment, acting with empathy and respect. As for the general services, these can include the following: 24/7 security, general maintenance, laundry and linen service, scheduled transportation, Internet and telephone access, housekeeping, meal planning and preparation.

Dementia seniors often struggle with daily living activities, requiring more or less assistance. They are helped with some tasks, such as dressing, bathing, toileting, eating, and grooming. In some centers, the assistance offered is limited to several ADLs, with the residents being encouraged to maintain their independence. Seniors who suffer from advanced forms of dementia might benefit from more assistance. Other services offered include: diabetes care, wound care, mobility assistance, and medication management.

Amenities in Mississippi memory care facilities

When it comes to housing, prospective residents can choose between apartments and bedroom-style units. These are equipped with various safety and accessibility features, and they can be accessed by the staff at any given moment (no keyed entries). Moreover, they all have a functioning emergency response system for major health events. Special features are added to the bathrooms to reduce the risk of common accidents.

As for the amenities, these are meant to help seniors fill their time, with benefits whereas their physical and mental health is concerned. Many of these amenities encourage residents to spend their day in a healthy manner, with socialization as a secondary goal. Among the most common amenities, there are: memory gardens, computer room, social events, yoga, guided walks, off-site trips, swimming, fitness, library, weekly religious service, birthday celebrations, etc. All of these amenities can lift one's mood, reducing the possibility of mood swings.