Memory Care Oklahoma

Memory care in Oklahoma

In the state of Oklahoma, there are about 60 memory care communities, as well as assisted living facilities with memory care units available. Memory care centers can be found in the following areas: Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Lawton, and Enid. All the memory care facilities in the state are licensed and regulated by the Long Term Care Services Division, which belongs to the Department of Health. Prospective residents can benefit from free assistance when it comes to finding the best memory care community for their needs and budget.

In order to be admitted into a memory care community, seniors have to meet specific criteria. Memory care facilities request a confirmed diagnosis of dementia, regardless of the form (Alzheimer's disease, frontotemporal dementia, Lewy Body dementia, vascular dementia). They might also require a detailed list of current impairments, both physical and mental. As for the minimum age requirement, this varies between 55 and 62. Other criteria considered include: marital status, income, level of independence/assistance necessary, co-existing conditions, and treatments.

Just like with admittance, memory care communities have specific reasons for refusing applications. It is common knowledge that seniors who suffer from infectious conditions are not accepted. The same goes for those who exhibit severe cognitive impairment, are unable to direct their own care, or require a type of care that the respective community cannot provide (long-term skilled nursing care, hospice care, etc.). Seniors who are mentally unstable, posing a threat to themselves or others, will not be accepted. Most communities refuse bedridden seniors, given that they require a level of care they are unable to guarantee.

Soon after the respective senior has been admitted, he/she will undergo a detailed assessment. This assessment is necessary to identify both needs and challenges. Examinations are usually handled by experienced physicians, with the assistance of trained nurses. Among the aspects analyzed, there are: emotional status, physical and mental health, personality, level of independence, assistance requirement, treatments, and co-existing conditions. Based on the results of this assessment, custom care plans are created. These are updated every couple of months and always after major health events.

Average cost of memory care in Oklahoma

In the state of Oklahoma, the average monthly cost of memory care is around $4,400. The average monthly cost is considerably lower than the national median of $5,000. By comparison, Texas and Kansas have higher rates, with the latter averaging at $5,500. Both Arkansas and Missouri have less expensive memory care facilities; in Missouri, for instance, the monthly rate for memory care is around $3,600.

Within the state of Oklahoma, the cost of memory care varies significantly. The most expensive memory care communities are found in Tulsa, with an average monthly cost of $5,400. On the other hand, Enid has the most affordable facilities of this kind, averaging at $3,500 per month. Memory care costs more than in-home care, adult day care, and assisted living. However, it is more affordable than home health care and nursing home care.

Management of dementia in memory care

With dementia rates on the rise, there has been an increased demand for specialized long-term care. Memory care communities in Oklahoma welcome seniors who suffer from dementia, dealing with discomforting manifestations, such as language impairment, cognitive decline, and memory loss. Residents have access to a structured living environment, with a predictable routine that includes quality care, assistance, and stimulating activities. They are monitored by specially trained caregivers, enjoying a meaningful and joyful existence.

The move into a memory care community involves a major change, but seniors should always consider the advantages incurred. Soon after making this transition, dementia seniors report feeling better. Memory care facilities offer a stimulating daily routine, with activities that encourage seniors to socialize. The overall quality of life improves and mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, are eliminated. Assisted living facilities offer memory care units, with similar benefits.

Predictable routines have been known to minimize the anxiety experienced by dementia seniors, helping them feel less confused at the same time. The countless safety features within memory care communities contribute to the feeling of safety, minimizing the risk of accidents and wandering. The positive change is often first noticed by former caregivers, who supported the decision to move into memory care. When their loved ones suffer from dementia, they assume the role of caregivers; over time, they realize more help is necessary.

With trained staff, specialized care, and 24/7 assistance, it is clear that memory care communities are best equipped to care for dementia seniors. Naturally, one might also consider other residential long-term care options, especially in the beginning. As their condition progresses, they will be encouraged by their caregivers to make the transition towards memory care. The staff working there can provide assistance with everyday tasks, contributing to a predictable daily routine.

Seniors enjoy life within a memory care community, feeling in control of what happens to them. As mentioned above, this move is also beneficial for their mental health, helping them feel less stressed. Daily meals have a high nutrition index, with ingredients chosen specially to support brain health. For seniors who present co-existing conditions, dietary adjustments are possible. The experience of the staff comes in handy during difficult moments, such as an emotional outburst or hallucination episodes.

Many memory care facilities have additional safety features to protect residents, such as elevators with codes, alarmed doors, and enclosed outdoor spaces. The presence of such features reduces the risk of wandering. With the help of the personnel, seniors are able to navigate the interior spaces safely. This service is known as mobility assistance, and it allows seniors to attend meals and various activities. Those who suffer from advanced dementia benefit from it in particular.

Tracking bracelets are available in certain communities, allowing residents to explore outdoor spaces. The staff monitors them at all times, without having to be necessarily close by. Seniors are supported in preserving their current skills through various therapies, and also have access to a multitude of activities that encourage socialization. In turn, this is beneficial for both physical and mental health. Even seniors with severe cognitive decline and language impairment can take part in some of these activities, under the direct supervision of the staff.

Options for memory care in Oklahoma

What are your options once you are diagnosed with dementia? You can keep living on your own in the beginning, receiving the necessary support from your family and friends. Even when they are willing to assume the roles of caregivers, you should think about alternative solutions, such as memory care. This decision is beneficial on a long-term basis; as dementia progresses, you will need help with everyday tasks, taking your medication, and other issues. At some point, you will rely on the trained staff for mobility assistance and specialized care as well.

Online, you can find a lot of information on the best communities that offer memory care. Remember that assisted living facilities also provide memory care as a service, with trained personnel and healthcare available. You can focus the search on your area or go statewide, organizing a list of potential options. Of course, you can also look at memory care communities in other states, especially if they have more attractive rates. You can then set up guided tours for each facility, preparing some questions beforehand. Many seniors are accompanied by their loved ones in these tours, using them as opportunities to form a general idea about what to expect.

Services offered in memory care in Oklahoma

To meet the needs of dementia seniors, memory care communities have developed a targeted range of services. Part of the everyday routine, these offer a certain degree of predictability and help residents feel less anxious or confused. Some of these services are actually chores, with the staff assuming responsibility for them. As a result, seniors have the freedom to occupy their day with engaging activities. They can work on preserving their current skills and even delay the progression of dementia.

Usually, you can find details on the available services online, on the website of each memory care community. Aside from the structured environment and dementia-specific therapies, residents benefit from experienced personnel, safety features, and targeted activities. The list of general services might include: laundry and linen service, general maintenance, 24/7 security, meal planning and preparation, errand running and shopping, scheduled transportation, Internet and telephone access, housekeeping.

The assistance with daily living activities is one of the most important services provided within memory care communities. Seniors receive help with common ADLs, such as dressing, bathing, grooming, eating, and toileting. They are encouraged to maintain partial independence or complete some tasks without assistance. Naturally, when it comes to those who suffer from advanced dementia, additional help will be provided. Additional services available include incontinence care, mobility assistance, wound care, diabetes care, and medication management.

Amenities in memory care facilities in the state of Oklahoma

Depending on each memory care community, seniors can move into apartments or bedroom-style units. As the memory care staff must be able to access the units in case of emergency, there are no lockable doors. Moreover, all units are equipped with safety and accessibility features, including an emergency response system for major health events. Even the bathrooms have special features to prevent potential accidents, such as slipping on wet surfaces. Memory care units can be explored during campus tours.

The amenities you will find available within memory care facilities are targeted at both physical and mental health. They allow seniors to occupy their time with pleasant activities, enjoying a better mood overall. It is a good thing that many amenities can be used by those with advanced dementia, while monitored by the trained staff. Among the most common amenities, there are: guided or walking tours, weekly religious service, memory garden, yoga, computer, library, swimming, social clubs, fitness, birthday celebrations and other events. Additional amenities can be provided, according to each community.