When is it Time to Move to Memory Care?

Donna Nichols • April 3, 2023
An elderly woman in a wheelchair is being helped by a nurse.

Memory care communities are specifically designed to meet the unique needs of people living with dementia and/or Alzheimer’s. Dementia symptoms can include forgetfulness, delusions, agitation, extreme personality changes, confusion and disorientation that can put you and your loved ones at risk.


Families do all they can to provide compassionate and loving care services, but this can be very taxing for everyone involved. Those who have dementia and/or Alzheimer’s require specialized care from people who are trained to meet their needs.


How do you know when you can no longer provide the care your loved ones need? Here are ten (10) signs that memory care may be the right choice.


1.     Do you worry about their safety all the time? Whether your loved one lives alone, with you, or in an assisted living community, if you are constantly worried about his or her safety, it may be time to move to memory care. Memory care communities are designed to meet the specialized needs of people living with dementia or Alzheimer’s and they can keep your loved one safe around the clock.


2.     Do you worry about your own safety? Many people experience significant personality changes as dementia progresses and can develop confusion and agitation that leads to violence or threats of violence. If your loved one is showing signs of violence and you are concerned about your own safety or others in your home, it may be best for your loved one to move to memory care. Memory care communities are familiar with these symptoms and know how to help your loved one in a more productive manner.


3.     Are you exhausted? Caregiver burnout is real and caring for someone with dementia or Alzheimer’s is emotionally and physically exhausting. Many caregivers let their own health suffer while they are taking care of a loved one and caregiving alone is not a continual position. Memory care communities have these caregivers on staff and can give you rest while still involving you in important care decisions. Many memory care communities are right here in Port Orange.


4.     Is your loved one neglecting their finances? If your loved one lives alone, check their mail. Do they have late notices or unpaid bills? Do you find creditor and collection notices? Have an open and honest conversation with your loved one about their financial situation. Neglecting finances is one of the first signs of dementia and can leave your loved one open to financial scams, putting their finances at risk.


5.     Is your loved one neglecting their personal hygiene? Unwashed clothing, body odor, unkempt hair, and other personal hygiene issues are another sign that it may be time to move to memory care. It can mean your loved one is forgetting to bathe, forgetting to do the laundry and can be another sign of dementia. Memory care services will include personal care assistance with activities of daily living that help your loved one stay on track. Ormond Beach/Palm Coast has some wonderful memory care communities to choose from.


6.     Does your loved one wander? If your loved one wanders in the middle of the night or becomes confused and disoriented, he or she may wander outside. Wandering can be extremely dangerous as your loved one may walk around and not realize where they are, or how to get back home. This can put seniors in dangerous situations and leave them exposed to harsh elements in the winter and summer. Memory care communities are secure and often have enclosed outdoor spaces to keep your loved one from wandering off without a caregiver.


7.    Are their living conditions are poor? One sign of early dementia can be hoarding. If you see that your loved one is no longer caring for his or her home, such as mail piling up, food spoiled in the refrigerator, dishes are being left out, and other household messes become uncontrollable, it may be time to move to memory care. Memory care communities include housekeeping and linen services, helping your loved one stay clean and well in their apartment.


8.     Is your loved one isolated and lonely? Getting out with a loved one with dementia can be difficult for caregivers and it’s very easy for people with dementia to plummet into isolation and loneliness. These feelings can increase the risk of depression. Memory care communities have active and engaging activities that are specifically designed for people with dementia. Activities are meant to be purposeful and fun while also soothing some of the agitation and anxiety dementia brings. Call to check out the memory care options in Daytona Beach.


9.     Your loved one has unexplained physical changes. Changes in your loved one that should make you think it may be time to move are weight changes, changes in posture and mobility problems. Your loved one may be forgetting to eat, or that he or she forgot they already ate and are eating again. Slow movements may be an indicator of confusion or disorientation. Memory care communities will closely monitor your loved one’s nutrition and wellness, making sure that he or she is eating well.


10. You want to restore your relationship with your loved one. Moving your loved one to memory care can help restore your relationship with them so you get to spend time doing the things you love to do together while someone else handles the professional care. Being their caregiver can make you feel detached from them and having someone else care for them gives you the opportunity to be a family member again.


As you can see, there are many things to consider when deciding to move to memory care. You may feel you shouldn’t place your loved one in a community, but believe us, it is the best decision you can make for them and yourself!


You do not have to go it alone! Assisted Living Made Simple is here to guide you along the way and we are FREE!! Call us first! 386-847-2322.


A close up of a person holding an older person 's hand.

Hurricane Season in Florida

By Donna Nichols • June 4, 2025
Florida's paradise of sun-kissed beaches, vibrant culture, and tropical beauty—is also home to one of the most intense annual weather phenomena: hurricane season. From June 1 to November 30, Floridians remain on high alert as powerful storms brew in the Atlantic, each potentially bringing torrential rain, fierce winds, and coastal surges. Understanding hurricane season is crucial for residents and visitors, as it ensures safety and preparedness in the face of nature’s fury. The Impact on Florida Florida has experienced some of the most destructive hurricanes in history, including Andrew (1992), Irma (2017), Ian (2022), Debby, Helene, and Milton (2024). These storms left behind immense devastation, flooding homes, severing power lines, and reshaping entire communities. The economic toll of hurricanes is staggering, affecting local businesses, tourism, and infrastructure. Coastal regions, particularly the Florida Keys and areas along the Gulf Coast, often face the most significant risk. However, inland areas are not immune—wind damage and flooding can wreak havoc miles from the shoreline. Preparing for Hurricane Season Being prepared is the best defense against hurricanes. Here’s how Floridians can safeguard themselves: Stay Informed : Monitor local weather reports and emergency alerts. The National Hurricane Center provides real-time tracking and updates. Create an Emergency Kit : Stock up on essentials, including water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, and extra batteries. Don’t forget important documents and pet supplies! Have a Plan : Know evacuation routes and shelter locations. Discuss emergency plans with family members and establish a safe meeting point. Secure Your Home : Reinforce windows, clear debris from your yard, and consider investing in storm shutters if possible. Hurricane season is a reality in Florida, but with preparation and awareness, residents can confidently weather the storm. Whether you’re a lifelong Floridian or a visitor experiencing the Sunshine State, staying informed and ready is key.  Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember—storms may come, but resilience keeps Florida strong.

Weathering the Storm: A Senior’s Guide to Hurricane Season in Florida

By Donna Nichols • June 3, 2025
Hurricane season in Florida, running from June to November, is a time for preparation, not panic. While these storms bring powerful winds, heavy rain, and potential flooding, a well-thought-out plan can make all the difference—especially for seniors. Taking proactive steps ensures safety, comfort, and peace of mind when the storm arrives. Let’s explore how you can best prepare, stay safe, and recover after the storm. For seniors, hurricanes present unique challenges. Mobility concerns may make evacuation difficult, medical needs require careful planning, and power outages can disrupt essential healthcare devices. Knowing the potential risks helps guide preparation efforts. Flooding: Heavy rain and storm surges can cause rapid water level rises, making roads impassable and homes vulnerable. Strong Winds: Hurricanes can bring winds exceeding 100 mph, toppling trees, damaging homes, and cutting off power. Extended Recovery Time: After a storm, essential services may be limited, making access to food, medications, and transportation difficult. Essential Preparations Emergency Kit: Assemble an emergency kit with the following essentials: medications, medical records, flashlights, extra batteries, non-perishable food, and water (enough for one gallon per person per day) – sufficient for three to five days. Evacuation Plan: Find nearby senior-friendly hurricane shelters that provide accessibility and medical support. Arrange Transportation: If you don’t drive, organize transportation with family, friends, or local emergency services. Communication Strategy: Stay connected with family, neighbors, and emergency contacts. Sign up for emergency alerts through local weather services.  Staying Safe During the Storm When the storm arrives, stay indoors and follow safety guidelines. Shelter Wisely: If you are staying home, choose an interior room away from windows. Monitor Updates: Use a battery-powered radio or phone to stay informed on conditions. Stay Calm: Practice relaxation techniques to manage stress and anxiety. What to do After the Storm Once the storm passes, careful steps ensure safety. • Assess Damage before venturing outside—watch for fallen power lines or debris. • Seek Assistance for cleanup, repairs, or financial aid through FEMA or community organizations. • Emotional Resilience: Recovering from a hurricane takes time. Connect with neighbors, friends, and local support groups to help ease the process. Conclusion Preparation is the best way to weather the storm—both physically and emotionally. By taking proactive steps, seniors can remain safe, informed, and in control during hurricane season. If you or a loved one needs additional support, contact your local emergency management office or organizations like the Red Cross. Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember that every storm eventually passes.

What do Seniors Want?

By Donna Nichols • May 7, 2025
Aging isn’t about slowing down—it’s about living more deliberately. As people age, their priorities shift from chasing time to cherishing it. So, what do seniors truly want? The answer is as diverse as the individuals themselves, but some clear themes emerge when we listen closely. 1. Connection and Community One of the most important things seniors crave is connection. Meaningful relationships bring joy and purpose, whether with family, old friends, or new acquaintances. Many seek social opportunities through clubs, senior centers, classes, or online communities. Loneliness can be a silent struggle, so companionship is a deeply valued part of life. 2. Respect and Independence Seniors want to be seen for who they are: individuals with a lifetime of experience, knowledge, and stories. Being treated with dignity and not being "talked down to" matters. So does having the freedom to make choices about their own lives. Maintaining a sense of autonomy is key when deciding how to spend their day, what to eat, or where to live. 3. Health and Wellness Staying healthy is more than just avoiding illness—it’s about having the energy to enjoy life. Seniors are increasingly proactive about fitness, mental health, and nutrition. Access to quality healthcare, fitness programs tailored to their needs, and mental stimulation are all top priorities. 4. Purpose and Meaning Retirement doesn’t mean retiring from life. Many seniors want to stay active through volunteering, mentoring, or even starting new ventures. Purpose drives fulfillment, whether taking care of grandchildren, learning a new skill, or contributing to a cause they care about. 5. Security and Peace of Mind Financial stability, safe housing, and access to reliable services give seniors peace of mind. Many are concerned about outliving their savings, dealing with unexpected health issues, or navigating complex systems. Clear information, supportive resources, and a sense of safety help ease these worries. 6. Fun and Adventure Yes—seniors still want fun! Travel, hobbies, music, food, and laughter never go out of style. Joy is ageless, whether it's a road trip, gardening, or dancing to old tunes. Seniors want to experience life, not just watch it pass by. Start by Listening Ultimately, the best way to understand what seniors want is simple: ask them. Every person, no matter their age, has unique preferences, needs, and dreams. When we listen with empathy and engage with respect, we create a world where aging is celebrated, not feared. Let’s build that world together. Call us to help each other enrich the lives of our seniors. 386-847-2322.
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