Alzheimer’s is a devastating diagnosis for any family. It can be difficult to understand the challenges of caring for a loved one with dementia.
Arizona is home to incredible resources for families navigating the journey of memory loss. Follow along to discover some organizations and senior care communities that support family members and provide Alzheimer’s care in Arizona.
What are Alzheimer’s and dementia?
Alzheimer’s is an irreversible and progressive type of dementia. It is the most common form of dementia that causes memory and thinking skills to diminish over time.
As Alzheimer’s progresses, it can lead to changes in behavior, such as:
- Confusion
- Irritability
- Depression
- Aggression
- Mood swings
- Language problems
- Long-term memory loss
- Loss of motivation
- Paranoia or delusions
Some lapses of memory are normal with age. Memory loss that interferes with daily activities is considered dementia and is not part of normal aging.
Dementia is a progressive neurological disorder affecting memory, communication, problem-solving, and behavior. Alzheimer’s Disease is the most well-known type of dementia, but there are several types, including:
- Mixed dementia
- Vascular dementia
- Dementia with Lewy bodies
- Frontotemporal Dementia
Each type can have subtle differences in symptoms, which makes an accurate diagnosis essential to providing the appropriate treatments. While dementia typically affects older adults, it could be caused by diseases or injuries acquired earlier.
Understanding dementia and its many forms are vital for creating treatment strategies for those afflicted.
Senior Care in Flagstaff and the Arizona Alzheimer’s Association
Over 257,000 family members support a loved one with Alzheimer’s in Arizona. Family caretakers should know they are not alone. Multiple organizations can offer advice and support.
A support group helps bring families together dealing with similar circumstances to share stories and experiences that inspire and educate. It should be the first step for seniors and their families following a dementia diagnosis.
However, let’s first discuss the options for care assistance.
- Memory care engages residents emotionally and physically. These communities provide opportunities to achieve success, gain independence, and enhance self-esteem. Specialized staff members work to reduce boredom, decrease stress levels, and create meaningful relationships.
- Respite care services allow caregivers temporary relief from the demands of providing around-the-clock care for their loved one at home. This type of senior care gives caregivers a much-needed break from their duties.
- Adult day services provide health monitoring and recreational activities like music therapy or art classes. Meals and transportation services are other common features.
- In-home care provides companionship while also providing household tasks like laundry, shopping, or meal preparation when necessary.
- Private duty nursing services provide medical oversight when necessary. This is typically the most expensive form of senior care, whether performed at home or in a skilled nursing facility.
- Hospice services provide physical comfort through medication management as well as emotional support. Bereavement counseling is also available for end-stage patients.
The above are excellent ways to prevent caregiver burnout and elevate the lifestyle of a loved one. Start with the following resources in Arizona to help find these services.
Northern Arizona Alzheimer’s and Dementia Alliance (NAZADA)
The Northern Arizona Alzheimer’s and Dementia Alliance (NAZADA) is an organization dedicated to improving the quality of life of everyone affected by memory loss. A wealth of resources for people with dementia and caregivers is available on their website. Some educational topics include:
- Healthcare options
- Legal issues
- Support systems
- Housing options
- Communication strategies
NAZADA hosts seminars and events throughout the year that cover various topics related to dementia care. The Majestic Mountain Café is a monthly get-together for caregivers and seniors. Meeting fellow Arizona residents on a journey with dementia can help families make informed decisions about their loved one’s treatment plans.
Alzheimer’s Association: Desert Southwest Chapter
The Arizona Alzheimer’s Association is known as The Desert Southwest Chapter. The group works diligently to raise awareness and offer free support. Use their website to:
- Call helplines
- Discuss care options
- Find meetup groups and activities
- Attend in-person or online support groups
- Request and register for wandering assistance
- Support events like Walk to End Alzheimer’s® and The Longest Day
The Bluffs of Flagstaff
The Bluffs of Flagstaff is a senior care community in Flagstaff, AZ. Specialized memory support is available in The Cottage. Our signature service provides long-term residential care. Our passionate team takes care of the heavy duties of caregiving so families can return to their everyday roles.
Our memory care services:
- Activities of daily living: bathing, dressing, grooming, eating, personal care, and hygiene
- Medication management and administration
- Licensed nurse oversight
- 24-hour team members
The highly-trained dementia care team provides individualized support. A resident-focused program lets each individual live in their moment and be themselves. The staff-to-resident ratio is high so residents can receive attentive services for their unique needs.
Dementia Live is an added benefit of our memory care program. This immersive experience invites family members to experience the effects of cognitive impairments. Dementia care specialists lead supportive discussions between family caregivers.
At The Bluffs of Flagstaff, we provide a modern environment for memory care that features breathtaking views of nature. Our dementia-friendly neighborhood includes:
- Secure indoor and outdoor area
- Senior apartments
- Chef-prepared meal service
- Individualized physical, mental, spiritual, emotional, and social activities
- Housekeeping and home maintenance
Take a virtual tour of The Cottage and memory care apartments at The Bluffs of Flagstaff.
Discover Alzheimer’s Care in Flagstaff, Arizona
Caring for someone who has been diagnosed with dementia can be overwhelming. Luckily, excellent resources like The Bluffs of Flagstaff and other organizations are available in Arizona.
Contact us to arrange a tour of memory care in Flagstaff, AZ. We are ready to help.
