A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or dementia can alter plans for the future in an instant, but hope for a dignified and honorable life is still possible. While science has yet to find a cure for Alzheimer’s, many folks can slow the progression of the disease and continue to live a life of purpose thanks to memory care communities like Orchard Ridge Residences in Dalton, GA.
What is Alzheimer’s?
Dementia comes in many forms and can affect people differently. About 60 to 80 percent of people living with dementia have Alzheimer’s.
Its primary trait is memory loss due to an increase of plaque and tangles interfering with brain nerves. Eventually, the nerves will not be able to communicate, resulting in a person needing around-the-clock care.
What kind of care is available to treat Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia?
While there is no cure for progressive types of dementia, they all have slightly different symptoms, requiring the need for personalized care.
| Type of Dementia | Common causes and traits |
| Alzheimer’s |
|
| Lewy body dementia |
|
| Vascular dementia |
|
| Frontotemporal dementia |
|
This chart should not replace medical advice. If you or a loved one has questions please consult your doctor.
Should I place my loved one in a nursing home for dementia?
Nursing homes tend to be much larger facilities than memory care communities. In a nursing home, there may only be a few people equipped for dementia care, whereas in memory care, nearly all staff—including administrators—will have the appropriate training. Many of the people in nursing homes may not be healthy enough to participate in various activities and outings, which are daily experiences in memory care.
Why are nursing homes so expensive?
- They provide care for people who have chronic conditions, are non-ambulatory or recovering from a procedure.
- They are medical facilities providing clinical-level care.
- Medical care is available 24 hours a day.
- They are state licensed and federally regulated.
People experiencing early and middle-stage Alzheimer’s and dementia don’t require a lot of constant medical care. A study in The American Journal of Managed Care estimates 16.3 million family caregivers provided around 18.6 billion hours of unpaid care to people with Alzheimer’s. Time is the highest cost of dementia care, but a nursing home might not be what you need either.
Why should I choose memory care for Alzheimer’s and dementia care?
The Grove at Orchard Ridge is Dalton’s only standalone environment for memory care. Its secure design reduces anxiety and encourages socialization. We are a community that celebrates life, stays active, and doesn’t let any diagnosis slow us down.
What our memory care includes:
- Trained memory care associates available 24/7
- Licensed nurse on-site
- Assistance dressing, bathing, and grooming
- Three brain-healthy meals and snacks every day
- Continuous monitoring of health
- Medication management
What activities are available to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s?
Variety is the spice of life, but people living with Alzheimer’s may have difficulty planning their day alone. It can cause stress and anxiety, which is why our full calendar of activities keeps residents looking forward to every new adventure.
Check out what we do at Orchard Ridge Residences:
- Pet therapy
- Noodle exercise
- Gardening
- BINGO, of course!
- Going out for ice cream
Where can I learn more about memory care for my loved one?
Orchard Ridge Residences encourages you to visit us in Dalton so we can answer all of the questions you have about memory care. Contact us to set up an appointment for a tour today.