Highlighting the Need for Memory Care in Mississippi
Alzheimer’s is a growing problem in Mississippi, and the numbers are alarming.
The Magnolia State has a disproportionate mortality rate due to Alzheimer’s. It also has a high stroke rate, which is a cause of certain types of dementia.
In Mississippi, there are nearly 60,000 individuals living with Alzheimer’s and 115,000 family caregivers providing 225 million hours of unpaid care per year.
Being a family caretaker is an honorable undertaking. However, it is not always a sustainable duty. One option to provide purpose, meaning, and, in some cases, slow memory loss is through memory care communities.
Continue reading to explore why memory loss is a rising concern in the state and where to find award-winning dementia care in Mississippi.
The Connection Between Alzheimer’s and Health Conditions in Mississippi
One reason for the high Alzheimer’s rate in Mississippi could be the state’s high prevalence of diabetes and high blood pressure.
“Mississippi has a high rate of diabetes and high blood pressure. We, you know, automatically have a higher rate of Alzheimer,” says Kristen Davis, Program Director for the Alzheimer’s Association, Mississippi Chapter, in an interview with WLBT 3. “We always say what’s healthy for your heart is healthy for your brain.”
This factor highlights the importance of seniors maintaining a healthy lifestyle that promotes heart and brain health.
Promoting Heart and Brain Health for Seniors
There are several ways seniors can stay healthy and maintain a lifestyle that is good for both their heart and brain. Some of these strategies include:
- Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats
- Engaging in regular physical activity, such as walking, swimming, or other low-impact exercises
- Staying socially connected with friends and family members
- Participating in activities that challenge the mind, such as puzzles, reading, or learning new skills
- Managing stress through relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga
By adopting these healthy habits, seniors can potentially reduce their risk of developing Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
The American Heart Association’s Life’s Simple 7, consisting of seven key factors for cardiovascular and brain health, has been associated with a reduced risk of dementia. These factors include:
- Staying active
- Eating healthily
- Losing weight
- Not smoking
- Maintaining healthy blood pressure
- Managing cholesterol
- Keeping blood sugar levels in check
According to Dr. Adrienne Tin from the University of Mississippi Medical Center, even individuals with a high genetic risk for dementia can potentially lower their risk by adhering to these healthier lifestyle habits.
The Connections Memory Care Program at Ridgeland Place
The Connections memory care program at Ridgeland Place is designed to promote brain health and improve the quality of life for individuals with dementia.
The program is based on the Connect, Move, Learn cycle, which encourages brain rewiring around the sections damaged by dementia. This innovative approach was developed by Dr. Sandra Petersen, who used data-based techniques to recover from memory and mobility loss following a stroke.
The Connections program promotes socialization, exercise, and purposeful challenges to provide better outcomes for those living with Alzheimer’s and dementia.
At our Mississippi dementia care community, we understand that each individual is unique and requires personalized care tailored to their specific needs. We are committed to providing a warm, nurturing, supportive environment where residents feel included and comfortable.
The aspects of our personalized care approach include:
- Individual Care Plans. Our dementia care team collaborates with family members and healthcare providers to create a customized care plan for each resident. This plan considers the resident’s medical, emotional, and cognitive needs, ensuring they receive the appropriate level of support
- Dedicated Care Team. Each resident is assigned a dedicated team of caregivers specially trained in memory care. This benefit ensures continuity of care and helps build strong bonds between residents and their care team.
- Person-Centered Activities. Our activity program caters to each resident’s interests, abilities, and cognitive levels. We offer a variety of engaging activities, such as music therapy, art, gardening, and reminiscence sessions, that promote mental stimulation, social interaction, and overall well-being.
- Secure and Comfortable Environment. Our memory care community is designed for comfort. The layout is easy to navigate, with visual cues to help residents find their way. Common areas are cozy and inviting, encouraging socialization and engagement.
- Nutrition and Wellness. We understand the importance of proper nutrition in maintaining cognitive health. Our culinary team prepares delicious, well-balanced meals using fresh ingredients, catering to individual dietary needs and preferences.
- Family Involvement. We believe in the power of family connections and encourage family members to be actively involved in their loved one’s care. Regular communication, family events, and support groups help maintain strong relationships and provide additional support for both residents and their families.
By focusing on personalized care, our memory care community strives to enhance the quality of life for each resident, fostering a sense of dignity, purpose, and belonging.
Ridgeland Place Memory Care: Mississippi Support Option
Alzheimer’s is a growing problem in Mississippi. High rates of diabetes and high blood pressure are contributing to the issue. Lifestyle changes promoting heart and brain health can help.
Specialized memory care programs at Ridgeland Place can help provide support, purpose, and meaning to those affected by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Contact us to take a tour of memory care in Ridgeland, Mississippi.