Benjamin Locke

Memory Care in New Orleans  Whether relationships, employment, or experiences, the most important things in life are captured in the complex web of neurons that create memories. Memory is one of the staples of living a healthy life; however, memory loss can become an unfortunate reality as we age. If you feel that someone you know or care about might be suffering adverse effects of memory loss, it is crucial to take action quickly. At Peristyle Residences, we have outstanding preventative care options for memory retention and loss prevention. Please contact us today to tour one of our eight residential care homes in greater New Orleans, Louisiana.  Different Types of Memory Loss  Does it have to be Alzheimer’s Disease? This is a common question among people encountering memory loss for the first time. The reality is there are many forms of memory loss, and each one has its diagnosis and treatment options. Below we dive into the various forms of memory loss that we see at Peristyle Residences.  Alzheimer’s Disease Alzheimer’s is probably the most common associated memory loss causing condition synonymous with old age and can lead to dementia. Alzheimer’s is caused by general atrophy and “shrinking” of the brain. Changes in “planning” and “solving problems” along with simple memory loss “where is everything?” are early-onset symptoms of the condition.  Dementia Although Alzheimer’s can lead to dementia, dementia can be caused by various factors that cause the misfiring of the electrical signals between neurons. Dementia is defined as the impaired ability to remember, think, or make decisions that interfere with everyday activities. Dementia can be caused by disease (Alzheimer’s), traumatic brain injury, or chronic substance abuse. Depending on the root cause, at Peristyle Residences, we have a multi-faceted treatment program to help manage the condition and alleviate symptoms.  Parkinsons Parkinson’s is a condition that is mainly associated with an apparent physical decline in motor ability and bodily function.  Parkinson’s can significantly impact the Neo Cortex andLimbic System with resulting memory loss.  Concussions/Head Trauma Direct impacts to the head leading to concussions and head trauma are some of the most well-known incidents directly leading to memory loss. This sudden movement and impact on the brain can twist and stretch the cells and nerves in the brain or change how chemicals and signals work for a time.  Oxygen Deprivation As the body ages, integral moving parts of our anatomy that generally interact with each other slow down. Oxygen and blood flow are two of the major pieces that can influence memory retention. Memory loss can be prevented by ensuring that blood is flowing 100% correctly on a fundamental level.  When is it Time for Care? One of the most challenging and arduous decisions a patient, family, or caregiver can make is when to seek care or medical assistance for memory loss. Here is a checklist of questions you should ask yourself when deciding if it’s time to care for your elderly loved one.  What is causing their memory loss? Is memory loss affecting their happiness and daily life?  Do they forget where they put things, significant life events, the faces of people?  Do they mix up their medications? Are they unable to manage their finances? Does your loved one wander or get lost? Do they exhibit unordinary acts of aggression? If you answered yes to any of the questions above, seek a medical test immediately for your elderly loved one. If your loved one is struggling even just a bit to get a grasp of things, the wisest decision is to seek medical care so that you can alleviate the symptoms and start preventative measures. Our Memory Care Plan  Our memory care strategy combines a patient and family-centric care plan in which we attempt to diagnose the root cause of the memory loss from a base diagnosis. We want to make sure the diagnosis is 100% correct at its most fundamental level before devising the appropriate treatment plan. We are then fastidious in our progress tracking and able to alter the plan when needed to maximize results.  With residential care homes throughout greater New Orleans, including suburbs such Metairie and Jefferson, we are proud to care for your elderly loved. Please contact us today to learn more about our assisted living and memory care program.