Click 2 Houston reports at least 62,000 older adults in Harris County, Texas live with Alzheimer’s. This is the most common form of memory loss, but just one of the many types of dementia people experience.
Houston seniors find a welcoming community at Novellus Kingwood.
Our team specializes in attainable, compassionate residential care for dementia, offering support to families in Kingwood and surrounding Metro Houston.
Learning of a loved one’s dementia diagnosis can be overwhelming but understanding it and finding a welcoming living situation helps everyone involved. Read on to learn about memory care in Kingwood, the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia, and their stages.
What Is Memory Care?
Memory care is a specialized form of senior living designed to meet the needs of people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. At Novellus Kingwood, our memory care services include:
- 24-hour supervision for safety and security.
- Personalized care plans tailored to each resident’s needs.
- Therapeutic activities, such as music and art, to enhance engagement and quality of life.
- Health and medication management to address cognitive and physical health challenges.
- Nutritious meals and assistance with daily activities.
By creating a structured, welcoming environment, our community reduces the stress and confusion that dementia often brings. We also provide assisted living to older adults without dementia, or those who are experiencing its early stages.
What Is the Difference Between Dementia and Alzheimer’s?
All seniors with Alzheimer’s also have dementia, but not all of those with dementia have Alzheimer’s.
What Is Dementia?
Dementia is a general term for cognitive decline severe enough to interfere with daily life. Symptoms include memory loss, confusion, and difficulty with communication. Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, but there are many others.
What Is Alzheimer’s?
Alzheimer’s accounts for 60 to 80 percent of dementia cases. It begins in the part of the brain responsible for learning, with early symptoms like:
- Short-term memory loss.
- Trouble finding words.
- Difficulty with planning and organizing.
Over time, like other forms of dementia, Alzheimer’s progresses to affect reasoning, behavior, and independence.
Types of Alzheimer’s and Dementia
Although Alzheimer’s is the most well-known type of dementia, there are several other forms. Below are some of the most common types of memory loss.
- Alzheimer’s: Characterized by plaques and tangles in the brain, Alzheimer’s gradually impairs memory and cognitive function.
- Vascular Dementia: Caused by reduced blood flow to the brain — often after a stroke — vascular dementia affects planning, concentration, and problem-solving.
- Lewy Body Dementia: This type is linked to abnormal protein deposits in brain cells. It causes hallucinations, sleep disturbances, and movement issues.
- Frontotemporal Dementia: Targeting the frontal and temporal lobes, frontotemporal dementia results in personality changes, inappropriate behavior, and language difficulties.
- Mixed Dementia: A combination of two or more types, such as Alzheimer’s and Lewy Body dementia, mixed dementia leads to a broader range of symptoms.
However, several lesser-known memory loss conditions affect older adults differently. While these are less common, understanding them can help families identify symptoms early and seek appropriate care.
- Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA): This is a rare form of Alzheimer’s primarily affecting vision and spatial awareness, making tasks like reading or navigating spaces challenging.
- Corticobasal Syndrome (CBS): Is characterized by movement disorders, speech difficulties, and cognitive decline due to brain cell damage.
- Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD): Fast-progressing dementia caused by abnormal proteins called prions, leading to memory loss, behavioral changes, and motor impairments.
- Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH): Caused by extra cerebrospinal fluid in the brain, NPH can lead to memory issues, difficulty walking, and urinary incontinence.
- Parkinson’s Disease Dementia (PDD): Occurs in people with Parkinson’s, often resulting in memory loss, hallucinations, and slowed thought processes.
Dementia Care Stages
Understanding the stages of dementia makes planning for care easier.
Early-Stage Dementia
People in the early stage may be unaware that their brains are changing. It’s crucial to visit a doctor at the first sign of dementia. Early-stage care often involves:
- Frequent check-ins
- Meal preparation
- Leaving notes and reminders
- Planning for future care at home or in a memory care community
- Dementia support groups
The goal at this time is to maintain independence as much as possible.
Middle-Stage Dementia
Early symptoms become more pronounced during middle-stage dementia and loved ones often need more assistance with activities like bathing and dressing. They also benefit from social activities that provide stimulation and engagement.
Behavior changes and wandering could become more significant, so closer supervision may be needed; caregiving can quickly become a full-time job during this stage and burnout is common. Remember to take breaks and ask for help to prevent overwhelming yourself.
Late-Stage Dementia
During this stage, seniors require 24-hour care and help with personal hygiene, eating, and mobility. Up until hospice is necessary, our associates contribute compassionate care and emotional support for families.
Local Memory Care Resources in Kingwood, TX
Families facing a dementia diagnosis in Kingwood, Texas have access to various resources:
- Consult a Specialist: Reach out to local healthcare professionals, including neurologists and geriatric specialists, to get a comprehensive diagnosis.
- Connect with Local Resources: Organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Association Houston & Southeast Texas chapter host support groups, educational workshops, and a 24/7 helpline.
- Plan Financially and Legally: Work with an elder law attorney or financial planner to prepare for the cost of care and establish legal documents like powers of attorney and advance healthcare directives.
- Benefit From Community Programs: Kingwood has a range of services — including respite care, adult day programs, and transportation — for families to manage their loved one’s needs.
- Explore Nearby Long-Term Care Options: Memory care communities like Novellus Kingwood offer specialized care based on the needs of people with dementia. Our team is trained to maintain an encouraging place for residents at every stage of one’s journey.
Why Consider Novellus Kingwood?
At Novellus Kingwood, we understand the challenges of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Our community provides a secure, purpose-driven environment for older adults. Contact us today to learn more about our attainable services or schedule a tour of our community. We’ll help your family navigate the journey of dementia care with compassion and expertise.