Memory Care In Huntsville,AL

Find the Best Memory Care Near Huntsville, AL

Memory care facilities are residential care homes for older adults with dementia and related cognitive decline. Residents receive specialized care in a secure environment, with caregivers on hand night and day to tend to their needs. Memory care staff members are trained to de-escalate aggressive behavior and escape-seeking and to provide redirection and reminders. Huntsville memory care properties are secured for the safety of residents, typically with electronic locks, cameras, and secured exterior doors. Many memory care communities are part of a larger assisted living facility, separate and secured from the rest of the property, while others are stand-alone properties dedicated solely to memory care.

Types of Memory Care

Although many people recognize Alzheimer’s Disease as a form of cognitive decline, it’s not the only type of dementia. Huntsville memory care communities accommodate older adults with all levels of dementia diagnoses, from early to late-stage dementia.

Common dementia conditions that Huntsville memory care residents may have include:

• Alzheimer’s disease
• Frontotemporal dementia
• Mixed dementia
• Lewy body dementia

Some memory care properties may also treat individuals who have other health conditions that have a side effect of cognitive decline, like:

• Parkinson’s disease
• Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease
• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Huntington’s disease

The construction and layout of many Huntsville memory care properties is purposeful and created with safety in mind, helping to reduce confusion for residents. Open floor plans and wider hallways are easier for residents to navigate than long, narrow hallways. Places like the dining room, individual apartments, and recreation areas are all clearly marked, and residents are prevented from entering restricted areas like storage closets and maintenance areas. Background music and lighting are designed to avoid sensory overload for residents.

Memory care communities in Huntsville offer activities that help slow cognitive declines, such as music or art therapy. Many aging adults in memory care facilities benefit from occupational, physical, and speech therapies, which are often offered on-site. Activities are intended to improve the residents’ quality of life without being overwhelming.

What is the Cost of Memory Care in Huntsville, AL

The average monthly cost of memory care in Huntsville is $3,914. Every facility’s costs will be a little more or less, depending on the amenities they provide. Memory care is usually more expensive than other types of senior living options, due to the additional training and certification of staff members and the low staff-to-resident ratios. Families who are moving a loved one from one type of senior care to memory care should be aware of the potential cost implications.

Huntsville memory care residents have their own private apartment, which includes light housekeeping and laundry service. Nutritious meals are also provided, with assistance eating provided if needed. Many seniors in memory care also require help with the activities of daily living (ADLs), such as:

• Using the bathroom or incontinence assistance
• Personal care, such as bathing, grooming, or applying make-up
• Medication management and diabetes care
• Escorts to meals and activities
• Transportation to doctor’s appointments and errands
• Mobility help, such as transfers and lifts

Each Huntsville memory care resident has an individual treatment and care plan, with doctors’ instructions, their dementia diagnosis, and any other health conditions staff members should be aware of. These plans often include the kinds of ADL assistance each person requires. Care plans are flexible and can change as the individual’s condition changes. Help is always available for residents.

What Should Every Senior Know About Living in Huntsville, AL?

Huntsville is the largest city in Alabama, located in the northern part of the state. It’s nicknamed the “Rocket City” because of the NASA facility here. Seniors can benefit from the amenities a big city offers, like healthcare options and ready access for visiting family and friends. There’s a large airport and several interstates that go through the city. Families may enjoy taking their seniors to Monte Sano State Park to visit the Japanese gardens or stroll through the Botanical Gardens.

Huntsville Weather & Climate

Huntsville summers are long and hot, with average temperatures of 90 degrees and milder winters with lows in the 30s and just a few inches of snow each year.

Local Hospitals & Notable Medical Care

Huntsville seniors have plenty of choices for superior health care. Huntsville Hospital offers 24-hour emergency care and has several affiliated specialist providers. Or, they may choose Crestwood Medical Center, which offers telemedical options.

Transportation

Huntsville’s public transportation department operates a fixed-route bus line and a downtown trolley area. There is also a handi-ride service available for seniors who need ADA-compliant transportation.

Arts, Culture & Recreation

The Huntsville Art Museum is one of the city’s most popular destinations for fixed and rotating exhibits and performances. Arts Huntsville supports community engagement through performances, programs, and festivals throughout the year, some of which families of memory care residents may enjoy escorting their loved ones to.