Dementia is becoming more of an issue in America and around the world. As our population ages, more people are developing the disease, which can be very challenging for patients and their loved ones. Unfortunately, many nursing homes don’t have the same facilities or amenities as other long-term care facilities, making it even harder for those with dementia to live there comfortably. Fortunately for families who want their loved ones to stay close by but also need specialized memory care, several different types of memory care facilities now cater specifically to those with dementia.
Memory care facilities in Guthsville, PA, are specially designed to help older adults with dementia, Alzheimer’s or other types of cognitive impairment. They provide specialized care services for each resident’s unique needs so they can live independently in a safe environment. But what about their exterior spaces? What does it take for an outdoor space to be dementia-friendly? Let’s explore:
Safety Features
Safety features are another way to create a dementia-friendly outdoor space. Dementia patients may have difficulty walking, so railings and paved walkways can help them feel more secure. Wheelchairs and walkers can also be used to ensure the safety of your loved one, who may need assistance getting around.
Finally, you must ensure your loved one has access to emergency call buttons to contact the staff if they need help or become disoriented while outdoors in the yard or garden area.
Easy Access
The outdoor space should be easy to access. The retirement community should have a clear path of travel from inside the building, through doors or hallways, and into the garden area. This way, residents can go outside whenever they feel like it without getting lost or confused about how to get there.
The outdoor space should also be visible from inside the community so that team members can see if a resident requires assistance when they’re out on their walker or wheelchair. If you can see what’s happening outside without leaving your desk or office cubicle, that’s even better!
Memory Aids
A memory aid is anything that can help someone with dementia remember something. Having these around the home is essential, especially if your loved one has trouble with short-term memory. Examples of memory aids include:
- A calendar or planner where they can write down events and appointments
- Pictures of family members, pets, and friends
- Reminders written on cards or notes placed around the house
Specialized Gardening Activities
In addition to a variety of social and sensory activities that can be enjoyed by residents with mild to moderate dementia, the memory care facility in Guthsville, PA encourages them to participate in gardening activities.
Gardening is an excellent way to stimulate the brain and provide physical exercise for those who can. Specialized gardening activities can be adapted based on each resident’s needs and abilities.
The Décor Is Appropriate
The décor of outdoor space should be appropriate for the dementia patient. This means that it should be designed with their needs in mind so that they feel comfortable and safe. It also means taking into account the age and gender of each resident and their culture.
