Many families consider long-term care communities when their loved ones can no longer live alone. When doing so, they need to compare multiple communities to find one that is a good fit. For some, a memory care community is necessary because the loved one is suffering from cognitive decline. Other adults benefit from assisted living, as they require assistance with specific tasks but can live independently once these tasks are completed. How do these options compare, and in what ways do they differ?
Assisted Living
When it comes to assisted living and memory care, both provide residents with personalized care and support. Assisted living is for individuals who can live independently but require assistance with daily living activities, such as bathing or housekeeping. These communities offer residents a room or apartment, housekeeping services, meals, and a range of activities. Residents can socialize, participate in community activities, and enjoy life to the fullest, knowing that household chores are being taken care of.
Memory Care
Memory care, in contrast, benefits individuals with dementia. These communities offer small bedrooms but provide ample common spaces where residents can gather and participate in various activities. The community features therapeutic touches, including soft colors, minimal clutter, and clear signage designed to assist residents with cognitive decline.
Anxiety is a problem for these individuals, so they need predictable routines. Furthermore, they need staff members to ensure they complete basic grooming and hygiene tasks, as they may forget to do them regularly. Memory care communities typically have smaller staff-to-patient ratios, ensuring that all residents receive the care they need. Furthermore, staff members undergo additional training to learn how to assist residents in addressing the unique challenges they face.
Over sixty percent of dementia patients will wander at least once, as reported by the Alzheimer’s Research Association. Many people will wander multiple times, and this activity can be dangerous. Memory care communities prevent this wandering by having mechanisms in place to track residents or they install doors with locks and alarms. Staff members are then alerted when a resident uses one of the doors. Residents are permitted to go outdoors in secure areas, allowing them to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine.
Similarities and Differences
Assisted living and memory care communities might be combined. These continuing care communities enable seniors to reside in one community and only move to a different unit if their care needs change. Seniors appreciate having this familiarity during challenging times. Both communities offer activities for residents and socialization opportunities, but memory care residents are monitored around the clock for their protection.
Patients in either community are encouraged to maintain the highest level of independence possible. Staff members are available to help where needed but encourage residents to do things on their own whenever possible. Memory care costs more than assisted living because the care needs are greater. Families should consider all options, but individuals with dementia often need the specialized help provided in a memory care community once their condition progresses.
When deciding which option is right for a loved one, families may want to consult their loved one’s medical team or an elder care expert. These individuals assess seniors to determine their care needs and guide families to the best senior living option. They also provide additional advice and support. With their help, families can find communities that meet their loved one’s needs in every way.
