Technology Used to Improve Quality of Life and Purpose Driven Programs
As people are living longer than ever before, cases of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s, are diagnosed more often. These conditions can be frightening for aging adults and their families. Fortunately, the medical field continues to work to understand these disorders and provide treatment options. More is known every day, and this information can be used to help older adults to extend their quality of life.
Often, individuals with dementia are prescribed a variety of medications to slow the progression of their symptoms. Today, we also know that there are various therapeutic techniques to implement, which can help to maintain cognitive functioning. The most state-of-the art approaches employ modern technology that seniors can engage with to apply their cognitive abilities and critical thinking skills. Doing this helps to keep the mind active and can help stave off the most severe symptoms of dementia.
Learn more about the technology options and purpose driven programs for individuals with dementia:
Symptoms of Dementia and Alzheimer’s
Everyone experiences some degree of cognitive decline as they age. Such declines are most often seen in a slowing of processing speed and a more difficult time remembering some types of information. The degree and pace of that decline varies for each person, depending on a number of factors such as genetics, diet, activity level, and general health. These typical declines can be combatted by staying cognitively engaged through reading, completing puzzles, and having quality social interactions.
More severe memory loss or cognitive dysfunction can be seen in individuals who have some form of dementia. Alzheimer’s is just one form of dementia and it is the most common. There are nearly a dozen different types. Each type of dementia has a unique cause, and some forms are quite debilitating. Typically, once symptoms onset, they worsen over time. Ultimately, at its worst, a dementia can cause a person to be unable to recognize the people around them and they may even lose their sense of self.
The increased number of cases of dementia and Alzheimer’s has spurred a demand for techniques to prevent the onset of the worst symptoms. The hope is that if the disorders can be slowed, then a person can enjoy more years with quality of life. Along with this, senior living communities with a focus on memory care are being established all around the country. The best memory care options are those that use purpose driven programs and the latest technology for cognitive rehabilitation and maintenance.
Purpose Driven Memory Care Programs
Today’s senior living looks much different than it did in the past. Often, seniors are worried about moving into a “facility” where they will lose their freedom. However, senior living communities are now much more home-like. They resemble apartment complexes, where residents are treated with care and respect. Many offer a range of services designed to meet sometimes shifting needs. Early on, a person may only need some assistance, and later they may need higher levels of medical care.
In the memory care model, residents are given specialized services to assist with the cognitive declines and memory loss associated with dementia. The exact services can vary, depending on the needs of each resident. Regardless, the intent is to be purpose driven, meaning that every element is designed and included with a purpose—that purpose typically links back to a core value of maintaining dignity and extending quality of life, no matter what symptoms a person may currently be experiencing.
Using Technology to Improve Quality of Life
Today’s seniors live in a world with technology they may not have imagined in their youth. However, that technology can be an invaluable part of a memory care plan. Just as anyone can interface with a computer program to play a game or learn about the world, so too can seniors, but for the purpose of engaging crucial cognitive abilities. Such programs work somewhat on a principle of ‘use it or lose it.’ By keeping various cognitive skills active, it helps to maintain those abilities and keep them sharp.
Technology programs like “It’s Never 2 Late” can be utilized to aid rehabilitation for speech therapy, physical therapy, and occupational therapy, in addition to memory care. Expertly designed programs and games are presented in a purpose-driven layout. The content can be further personalized to be responsive to each user’s needs. Family and friends can even add content remotely for their loved one to access. Seniors can then engage with the content at their own pace, which also reduces anxiety.
Final Recommendations
Research shows that seniors who utilize purpose driven technology programs such as “It’s Never 2 Late” as part of their memory care plan, are more satisfied with their quality of life. The design of the program not only helps them to maintain their cognitive skills, but it also helps them to relax, engage in the present, remember their past, and feel connected to their life and loved ones. If you are looking for residential memory care options for your loved one, consider one that offers such programming.
Quail Park Communities is one memory care option available in the western United States. Quail Park Communities are built for modern senior living. Residents can move into an independent living setting and step up their services as their needs increase. The Quail Park memory care mission is to help seniors maintain their quality of life and this goal is achieved with attention for each resident’s unique needs.