Memory Care Nevada

Memory care in Nevada

In the state of Nevada, there are about 50 memory care communities, as well as several assisted living facilities that have integrated memory care units. Most memory care centers are located in Las Vegas, Henderson, and Reno. All memory care facilities have to be licensed and regulated by the Division of Public and Behavioral Health. The good news is that prospective memory care residents can be assisted with finding the best memory care facility, in accordance with their budget and needs.

Memory care communities usually accept seniors who meet the minimum age requirement of 62 (or 55 in some centers). They have to present a confirmed diagnosis of dementia, accompanied by a detailed list of current impairments. Each facility reserves the right to establish additional admittance criteria, but most of them focus on the following: marital status, income, level of independence, need for assistance, physical and mental health, challenges, needs, treatments, etc. All types of dementia are accepted, including Alzheimer’s disease, frontotemporal dementia, vascular dementia, and Lewy Body dementia.

Some applications might be rejected, especially if they do not meet all the above-mentioned criteria. For instance, memory care communities do not accept those who require long-term nursing care, hospice care, or any other type of care that they are unable to provide. The same goes for mentally unstable seniors, who might pose a threat to themselves or others. Seniors who are bedridden, those who suffer from infectious conditions, or exhibit severe cognitive impairment will be refused as well. In most memory care communities, seniors who are unable to direct their own care are not accepted.

Accepted applications undergo an initial assessment, which is necessary to identify their needs and difficulties. Performed by a trained physician, with the help of a registered nurse, it offers useful information on each particular resident. The following aspects are analyzed: current treatments, level of independence, physical and mental health, behavior, personality, emotional status. After the assessment, a custom care plan is developed; this plan is updated every couple of months and after major health events.

Average cost of memory care in Nevada

In the state of Nevada, the average monthly cost of memory care is of $4,200. This is significantly lower than the national median of $5,000. Compared to neighboring states, such as Idaho and Utah, Nevada has more expensive communities of this kind. In Idaho, for instance, memory care averages at $4,000 per month. On the other hand, both California and Oregon have facilities with higher fees, averaging at $5,400 per month.

Within the state of Nevada, the cost of memory care varies considerably. The most expensive memory care communities can be found in Carson City, with an average monthly cost of $5,400. Reno has the most affordable facilities, averaging at $4,400 per month. Memory care costs more than other long-term care options, such as adult day care, independent living, assisted living. The only exception is represented by nursing care, which costs significantly more.

Management of dementia in memory care in Nevada

Dementia affects people of older age, starting with manifestations that are not necessarily specific for cognitive deterioration. However, the illness progresses over time, leading to symptoms that are more easily recognized, including memory loss, language impairment, and concentration difficulties. Alternative living, such as memory care, can ensure the best quality of life for those who suffer from dementia. Aside from these communities, there are also assisted living facilities with integrated memory care units, which provide similar services.

For dementia seniors, the move into a memory care community is more than benefic. From the assistance with ADLs to the quality care available at all times, there are a lot of advantages worth taking into consideration. Within the calm atmosphere of each facility, seniors enjoy a structured routine, filled with pleasant activities. The staff is readily available to provide the needed assistance, helping residents keep their manifestations in check. Moreover, the regular monitoring reduces the risk of accidents and wandering.

Caregivers support the decision to seek out a retirement community of this kind. This is directly related to the pressure of having to take care of someone who suffers from dementia. The lack of experience is obvious, leading to health issues for caregivers. Burnout is often a main problem, forcing them to find a memory care facility for their loved ones. The change is beneficial for both caregivers and seniors, especially when it comes to those who are in the advanced stages.

Aging is a normal process and many seniors experience forgetfulness as a result. However, when it comes to dementia, there are additional signs one should pay attention to. Those who suffer from this condition might also present cognitive decline and language difficulties. As they will no longer be able to distinguish between right and wrong, the risk of accidents will increase threefold. Performing otherwise simple tasks will prove to be complicated, so they will need assistance as well.

Advanced forms of dementia will lead to even more severe manifestations, making it difficult for seniors to handle the daily routine. Forgetfulness can progress to the point where they will struggle to remember what happened recently or the names of their loved ones. Anxiety and depression can be present, with mood swings making everyday living even harder. Most seniors become withdrawn, avoiding the interaction with their loved ones. Considering all these changes, it should come as no surprise that caregivers are turning towards memory care.

The transition into memory care can lead to a noticeable difference in the respective senior. Not only will their mental health improved, but they will find the daily routine easier to manage. Predictability can help those who suffer from dementia, as it minimizes the confusion experienced and also protects them from potential injuries. Safety features are added to ensure additional protections and the staff is always available to assist residents with their needs. Healthcare is offered for co-existing conditions, but in some this is made available by third-party providers.

Both the management and staff of memory care communities focus on ensuring the best life quality for all residents. Regardless of the illness stage, seniors are assisted with various tasks and their day is filled with activities they can enjoy. Together with the trained staff, they are fighting against the challenges of dementia. They have access to a wide range of therapies, which can help them preserve their current skills. Moreover, the constant engagement prevents isolation, with a positive effect on their mental health.

Options for memory care in Nevada

After their loved one is diagnosed with dementia, many families begin to research long-term care options. They are looking at various memory care communities, but also at other choices, such as continuous care or assisted living. Ultimately, most of them focus on memory care, either in a regular community or within assisted living facilities. These centers are best equipped to handle the complex needs of dementia seniors, ensuring a high standard of living.

Assisted living facilities have established memory care units, so they could meet the increased demand for specialized care and assistance. Just like memory care communities, they have trained staff, therapies, and healthcare available. Seniors have access to adapted housing, with a structured routine and stimulating activities. This is an option particularly attractive for couples, as they can stay together on the same campus, benefitting from different types of care.

It is only normal to feel uncertain about moving into memory care, as this is a major life decision to make. The most important thing is to take some time and consider the advantages of living within such a community. Discuss them with your friends and family, and be sure to visit different facilities. You can form a general idea about the care offered and ask questions, thus feeling less anxious about the future. Caregivers often support the decision of moving into memory care, as they are well-aware of the benefits incurred. Ask for their assistance, they will be glad to help.

Services offered in memory care in Nevada

The selection of services available in memory care communities is anything but random. In fact, each service is considered with regard to the complex needs of dementia seniors. As a result, the staff is always trained on how these should be provided. These are integrated into the daily routine and help seniors feel less pressured in having to handle difficult chores. Some services contribute directly to a better quality of life, while others are focused on the challenges caused by dementia.

Most memory care facilities list the services they offer online, so you can check them out before visiting a respective community. In consequence, you already know what to expect. These communities provide therapies for dementia, specialized care and assistance, safety and accessibility features, trained personnel, etc. Their general services can include the following: laundry and linen service, scheduled transportation, errand running and shopping, meal planning and preparation, Internet and telephone access, general maintenance.

The assistance with ADLs is one of the most important services provided. Residents are encouraged to maintain their independence, so they might receive help only with a number of tasks. Ultimately, they have to preserve their current skills and fight the progression of dementia. Common tasks with which they receive assistance include eating, dressing, bathing, toileting, and grooming. They might also benefit from medication management, diabetes care, wound care, and mobility assistance.

Amenities offered by memory care centers in Nevada

In terms of housing, dementia seniors can choose either bedroom-style units or apartments. All units have doors that do not lock, so they can be accessed by the staff in case of emergencies. There are various safety and accessibility features included, which protect against accidents and facilitate daily living. Bathrooms have their own features to prevent common mishaps, such as slipping and falling. All housing units have a modern emergency response system, which can be used in case of major health events.

The daily routine is filled with pleasant activities, with benefits for both physical and mental health. Seniors can opt for various amenities, often under the direct supervision of the trained staff. Among the most common amenities available, you might find the following: swimming, yoga, walking/guided tours, social clubs, memory garden, computer room, library, weekly religious service, off-site trips, fitness, birthday celebrations and other events. These amenities help residents feel better, both physically and mentally.