A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia can be a complicated and overwhelming experience. Finding an experienced and compassionate dementia care specialist is one way to ensure a loved one receives the care they need.
Dementia care specialists are experienced professionals who provide specialized services to residents in memory care communities. They have extensive knowledge about the various types of dementia, as well as the unique needs associated with them.
This blog post will discuss why memory care specialists are vital to Lake Charles’s dementia care communities. Discover how easy it can be to find qualified care in Louisiana.
What Is A Dementia Care Specialist?
A certified dementia care specialist is a skilled professional. This valuable occupation provides specialized support to seniors with memory loss due to Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
They use evidence-based approaches to address both physical and psychological needs. Qualified professionals also orchestrate meaningful experiences and relationships that improve quality of life. They understand the unique needs of individuals with dementia and provide compassionate and personalized assistance in daily activities.
Some daily duties of a dementia care specialist involve:
- Helping residents with activities of daily living (bathing, dressing, eating, etc.)
- Offering individualized support and activity opportunities
- Facilitating engaging activities and encouraging social interaction
- Managing medications and pharmaceutical coordination
- Practicing active listening skills and making residents feel valued
- Tracking behavior and health changes
- Ensuring a secure environment
To become certified, these specialists must complete a comprehensive training program that covers topics such as:
- Understanding types of dementia
- Responding to challenging behaviors
- Medical treatments and health care
- Nutrition guidance
The goal of a certified dementia care specialist is to work closely with residents—and their families—at memory care facilities.
These experts help families understand their loved one’s diagnosis. They also supply the heavy lifting of Alzheimer’s care. They encourage children and spouses to become involved in their family members’ day-to-day lives and activities.
Specialists continue to assess the level of care needed for each patient as memory loss progresses. All these tactics combine to create an enjoyable and comforting atmosphere for those living with dementia.
The Different Types of Dementia
There are many different types of dementia. Each type requires its own set of specialized skills and expertise.
It’s not uncommon to hear people using the terms Alzheimer’s and dementia interchangeably. However, they are not the same thing.
Alzheimer’s is a specific form of dementia. It’s characterized by certain proteins disrupting communications between brain cells. Alzheimer’s accounts for roughly two-thirds of all cases of dementia.
Dementia is a general term for conditions associated with a decline in memory that interferes with daily activities.
Alzheimer’s is the most common type of dementia, but there are many others, including:
- Lewy body dementia
- Frontotemporal dementia
- Vascular dementia
- Mixed dementia
Family members need to understand each type of dementia. It helps in the process of making informed decisions about their loved one’s care. A qualified dementia care specialist can help families understand the difference and explain how they affect individuals differently.
The Effects Of Different Types Of Dementia
Dementia has a wide range of effects on physical and mental health. Depending on the type of dementia and its severity, individuals may experience:
- Changes in behavior
- Difficulty communicating
- Impaired mobility
- Difficulty with daily activities such as bathing or dressing
- Memory loss
- Confusion or disorientation
- Mood swings
- Depression, anxiety, or agitation
Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia are two of the most common forms of dementia:
- Alzheimer’s is caused by the destruction of brain cells.
- A decreased blood supply to the brain due to damaged blood vessels causes vascular dementia.
While both types can produce similar symptoms, they often require different treatments.
A doctor may prescribe antipsychotic medications to reduce distress or agitation in a person with Alzheimer’s.
Medical interventions such as lowering cholesterol or treating high blood pressure are often needed for vascular dementia.
It’s crucial to note that each case of dementia is unique and may respond differently to treatments. Always talk with a doctor about their specific needs and circumstances.
A qualified memory care professional can also help families understand symptoms and create a plan for managing them effectively.
Sage Oak of Lake Charles: Memory Care in Lake Charles, Louisiana
The team at Sage Oak of Lake Charles consists of qualified professionals who specialize in providing expert memory care services. Our memory care is a small-scale family-style environment.
We offer a world-class 1:5 to 1:8 caregiver-to-resident ratio. More hands allow us to provide personalized attention for each resident at all times. The smaller home-like setting offers clear sight lines that allow specialists to respond quickly.
Our memory care program offers boutique dementia care. The Sage Oak Campus is made up of five homes with 16 living spaces in each. Two of the homes offer award-winning dedication to memory care.
Many assisted living and memory care facilities in Lake Charles, LA house upward of 100 residents. These residents are spread all over the building and may not have immediate access to assistance.
Our team members have extensive knowledge about all forms of cognitive decline. Our experts can address any issues that arise quickly and compassionately. Personalized attention is readily available in our community.
What’s the best way to find quality memory care services for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia? Finding an experienced professional who understands all aspects of caring for someone living with this condition is essential. We pride ourselves on having highly trained staff members who specialize in providing exceptional long-term memory care services.
Our high caregiver-to-resident ratio ensures that residents receive personalized attention at all times. Our team is invaluable in providing expert dementia care services in Lake Charles, Louisiana.
Discover Specialized Lake Charles Dementia Care
Finding expert care is vital to the future of those experiencing memory loss. Meet the dementia care specialists at Sage Oak of Lake Charles by taking a tour. Contact us to find qualified relief near you.