Memory Care FAQs | Aberdeen Heights Kirkwood, MO

memory care

frequently asked questions

How is memory care different from assisted living?

While assisted living primarily provides aid with activities of daily living, memory care in The Glen focuses on enhancing the lives of residents and family members through compassion, kindness and a thorough understanding of the challenges of memory loss. The structure and design of our approach to memory care promotes improved self-esteem through successful participation in all components of a resident’s life, as well as programming to maximize a resident’s overall well-being. Examples include:

Landmarks for Living® philosophy of care which recognizes physical, social, emotional, mental and spiritual needs, and supports independence for as long as possible
MUSIC & MEMORY® which provides personalized playlists for each resident, offering opportunities to connect with deeply held memories

Whatis the difference between Alzheimer’s disease and dementia?

Dementia refers to the loss of cognitive functions (thinking, reasoning, the ability to remember) that are severe enough to interfere with a person’s daily functioning. This group of symptoms is not a disease per se but may accompany certain diseases or conditions. Dementia is irreversible when caused by disease or certain injuries. It may be partially or fully reversible when caused by drugs ,alcohol, depression or imbalances in certain substances such as hormones or vitamins. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia. It is a progressive, degenerative disease of the brain, characterized by loss of function and death of nerve cells in several brain areas, leading to loss of recent memories and new learning first and, eventually, old memories, too.

When is the right time to move into a memory care community?

The decision to move into a memory care community can be challenging for older adults and their families, and it varies from person to person. Considerations may include the progression of dementia: Can the person manage the tasks of daily living? Is he able to live independently? How much in-home care does she currently have? What is the burden on a spouse or grown children? A memory care community offers around-the-clock support in a secure environment, as well as social and mental programming that can help the person enjoy each day as much as possible. At Aberdeen Heights, we are here to answer questions and support you every step of the way, so contact us today for a consultation.

What types of security measures are in place for memory care residents?

Our memory care neighborhood is a free-standing building designed with safety and security in mind. In addition to our community’s 24/7 private security, our memory care building has additional safety features, such as secured doors to the outside, licensed nurses and patient monitoring systems. Most importantly, we are a personal, loving community, so our team members get to know our residents. We develop individualized care plans and work with checklists, the patient’s doctor and family members to ensure we deliver the right care everyday to every resident.

How do the fees work for memory care?

There are two options to move into memory care at Aberdeen Heights. First, independent living residents can take advantage of our Unique Health Care Benefit. When you move into our independent living neighborhood, you pay an entrance fee, which gives you guaranteed access to our health service neighborhoods at a fixed, affordable monthly rate should your needs ever change. Our memory care community is also open for direct move-in. With this option, you pay a monthly fee determined by the level of services needed.

Can couples live in memory care together?

A diagnosis of dementia is necessary for our memory care neighborhood; however, couples may live together as long as it is safe for both residents to do so.

Can my loved one leave the memory care neighborhood?

Yes! You have the peace of mind to know that our trained staff can help you determine if an outing is appropriate for your loved one or not on any given day. Residents may leave the community with family members. Please checkin with the nurses’ station and sign out at the concierge desk.

Does my loved one have to use a hospital bed?

No. The rooms do not come furnished. We encourage families to personalize the resident’s room to help with the adjustment and make it feel more like home. For those with memory loss, being surrounded by familiar things may bring comfort and a sense of security. Respite furniture is available if needed.