Is your loved one exhibiting signs of normal aging, or is it something deeper, such as mild cognitive impairment (MCI)? Join us on Nov. 7th at The Kensington Redondo Beach for our “Kensington Club: Bubbles & Bites Brunch Open House”, dedicated to shedding light on our third tier of memory care for new and current assisted living residents whose MCI and mild changes in memory are interfering with daily living.
Enjoy a delicious spread of brunch bites and beverages—masterfully prepared by Executive Chef Rommel. Stop by, share your story, and lean on us for support! This event is a fantastic opportunity for you to learn how early intervention and specialized care such as The Kensington Club can significantly impact the progression of memory loss.
The Kensington Club (K Club), part of our community, acts as a respite care or a day center for those in the early stages of memory loss, offering caregivers the chance to take a well-deserved break.
Your loved ones will enjoy a refreshing change of scenery and pace, engaging in activities designed to support their cognitive health.
In this article, we’ll dive into the often misunderstood topic of MCI, exploring what it means for individuals and their families.
RSVP today to join us and gain insights and support in managing this condition effectively.
What is mild cognitive impairment (MCI)?
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a phase that sits in between the usual memory hiccups of normal aging and the more intense decline seen with dementia.
It’s like being on a bridge where one side is aging typically, and the other side is accelerated brain aging that can lead to more severe conditions.
Individuals with MCI often find themselves more forgetful than others their age, which can be a bit concerning but usually isn’t severe enough to disrupt daily life.
Symptoms of mild cognitive impairment (MCI)
- Forgetfulness, such as misplacing items or forgetting appointments and events more frequently than usual
- Struggling to find the right words or follow conversations as easily as before
- Making decisions might take longer, and planning or solving problems becomes more difficult.
- Maintaining focus and staying alert may become more difficult
Risk factors for developing MCI
- Being over the age of 65
- Specific genes, such as the APOE ε4 allele, have been linked to an increased risk of both MCI and Alzheimer’s disease.
- Hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity
- Smoking, lack of exercise, poor diet, and excessive alcohol consumption
- Poor sleep patterns, such as those caused by sleep apnea and mental health issues
- A history of traumatic head injuries
Does MCI always lead to dementia?
Just because a loved one has been diagnosed with MCI doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll develop dementia, but it does increase their risk.
Studies show that not everyone with MCI will progress to more severe disorders, and some individuals will remain stable.
At the same time, a very small percentage may even experience a reversal or improvement in their symptoms.
Statistics about MCI:
- Approximately 10%-15% of people with MCI progress to dementia each year.
- The typical onset age of MCI is over the age of 65.
- MCI’s duration varies, with some people experiencing symptoms for a short period while others may have them for several years.
The 6 best ways to support someone with MCI
Supporting a loved one with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) involves understanding and patience, as the changes they experience are often subtle and do not drastically interfere with their daily life.
However, these changes can be frustrating for them, and your support can significantly affect how they manage these challenges.
The following are practical steps to help your loved one manage the symptoms caused by MCI.
1. Reduce confusion with a predictable routine
Help your loved one maintain a consistent daily schedule. Routines can reduce confusion, help them feel more secure, and make daily tasks more manageable.
2. Redesign the living space with new reminders
Organize their home to minimize frustration, such as keeping frequently used items like keys or glasses in designated spots. Use labels and simple instructions where necessary to help them navigate their environment more easily.
3. Get active to improve brain health and function
Physical activity benefits brain health and can help improve mood and energy levels. Encourage activities like walking, light aerobics, or group exercise classes tailored for older adults.
4. Stay connected to reduce isolation
Keep your loved one engaged with family, friends, and community activities. Social interaction helps maintain mental function and prevents feelings of isolation and depression.
5. Stimulate the brain to keep it engaged
Engage them in activities stimulating the brain, such as puzzles, reading, or hobbies they enjoy. Even new learning experiences like a cooking class or computer use can be beneficial.
6. Keep watch on other health issues
Accompany them to medical appointments and ensure they follow medical advice, including taking prescribed medications as directed to manage symptoms effectively.
How The K Club can help your loved one with mild cognitive impairment
At The K Club, we recognize the importance of a supportive community in managing MCI.
Our programs help residents maintain their cognitive abilities and foster social connections.
Here’s The K Club at The Kensington Redondo Beach can support your loved one:
- Specialized programs: We offer cognitive exercises, brain wellness activities, and learning experiences for individuals with MCI.
- Expressive arts and music therapies: These programs allow residents to express themselves creatively and maintain their identity.
- Physical activity programs: These include yoga, tai chi, and dance, which are tailored to enhance physical health while being gentle on the mind.
- Educational workshops and support groups: Providing residents and their families with valuable information on living with MCI and offering a space to share experiences and coping strategies.
Explore The Kensington Club for specialized MCI care
Explore the unique benefits of The Kensington Club at our Redondo Beach community, specially designed for individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
Our program offers a comfortable setting where you can safely drop off your loved one, allowing them to engage in activities that support cognitive health while you take a well-deserved break.
Whether it’s for a day of respite or to explore the possibility of making The Kensington their new home, we provide an environment that nurtures both independence and care.
Beyond The Kensington Club, our community features extensive amenities and support tailored to various stages of memory care, from the early-stage care program Connections to more advanced care programs, such as Haven.
We host educational events to empower caregivers, offer on-site physical rehabilitation, and provide all-day dining to meet nutritional needs. Our life enrichment programs are designed to enhance daily living through various activities that foster joy and community connection.
Contact The Kensington Redondo Beach today to learn more or schedule a visit to see how we fulfill Our Promise to love and care for your family as we do our own.