The Difference Between Assisted Living and Memory Care
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Written by webtechs

The Difference Between Assisted Living and Memory Care

Assisted living and memory care are two types of long-term care options designed to meet the needs of older adults, but they differ in terms of the level of care provided and the specific services offered. Here are the key differences between assisted living and memory care:

  1. Purpose:

    • Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities are designed for older adults who need some assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, medication management, and meal preparation, but do not require the level of care provided in a nursing home.
    • Memory Care: Memory care, also known as dementia care or Alzheimer’s care, is a specialized form of long-term care designed for individuals with memory impairment, Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or other cognitive disorders. Memory care facilities are specifically equipped and staffed to meet the unique needs of residents with memory-related conditions.

  2. Level of Care:

    • Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities provide assistance with ADLs and other supportive services to help residents maintain independence and quality of life. Staff members are available around-the-clock to provide assistance as needed, but residents typically have a higher level of independence compared to those in memory care.
    • Memory Care: Memory care facilities offer specialized care and support for individuals with memory impairment. Staff members receive additional training in dementia care and are trained to manage challenging behaviors commonly associated with memory-related conditions. Memory care facilities provide a secure environment with enhanced safety features to prevent wandering and ensure the well-being of residents.

  3. Staffing and Training:

    • Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities employ staff members who are trained to assist with ADLs and provide supportive services. While staff members may have some training in memory care techniques, they may not have specialized training in dementia care.
    • Memory Care: Memory care facilities have staff members who are specifically trained in dementia care techniques, including communication strategies, behavioral management, and activities designed to engage residents with memory impairment. Staff-to-resident ratios may be higher in memory care facilities to ensure personalized care and supervision.

  4. Environment:

    • Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities typically offer a homelike environment with private or semi-private apartments or rooms. Residents have access to communal areas for dining, socializing, and recreational activities.
    • Memory Care: Memory care facilities are specially designed to meet the unique needs of individuals with memory impairment. These facilities may have secured or monitored outdoor spaces, memory-enhancing features such as visual cues and memory stations, and specialized programming tailored to the cognitive abilities and interests of residents.

Overall, the primary difference between assisted living and memory care is the level of specialized care provided and the focus on meeting the unique needs of individuals with memory-related conditions in memory care facilities. Seniors and their families should carefully consider the specific care needs and preferences of the individual when choosing between assisted living and memory care options.

nd help those wishing for social interaction at the same time.

 

Memory Care At Desert Winds Retirement In Peoria, Arizona 

If you are searching for a memory care facility in Peoria, Arizona, Desert Winds Retirement Community is the facility for you! Travel over to our memory care page to see pictures find out more about our facility, amenities, floor plans and more.

 

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The Difference Between Assisted Living and Memory Care
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

When To Move From Assisted Living To Memory Care

Knowing when a transition from assisted living to memory care is needed can be tough to determine. Look for these few signs to help assist your loved one’s needs at an advanced age.

When To Move Into Memory Care

If you or a loved one identifies these signs, it may be time to consider a permanent move into a memory care arrangement. Here are a few signs that memory care should be the next step:

  • Constantly Worrying About Safety
  • Neglecting Personal Care
  • Loved One Feels Isolated And Lonely
  • Changing Physical Needs

Constantly Worrying About Safety

This, unfortunately, is a common fear for many families. Whenever you truly fear for your loved one’s safety on a daily basis, memory care must be considered. Within an assisted living facility, your loved ones spend a lot more time by themselves. Staffs at assisted living facilities will certainly be attentive, but memory care facilities offer constant care and checkups to make sure each resident is safe.

Neglecting Personal Care

As a resident ages, they may tend to neglect many things they are normally on top of. One of these aspects can be personal care. When hygiene becomes an issue, it may be a sign of dementia. Any resident living with dementia deserves round-the-clock care. Try to monitor any changes in body odor, hair styling or unwashed/wrinkled clothing.

Loved One Feels Isolated And Lonely

Unfortunately, it can be very easy for anyone suffering from dementia to fall into isolation. Feelings of loneliness will also increase the risk of depression. Memory care communities have set up active and engaging programs to help stimulate the mind and decrease loneliness. Most communities will set up activities specifically for those dealing with dementia or Alzheimer’s.

Changing Physical Needs

Physical changes can happen, sometimes drastically. Mobility problems are common, but other changes like weight loss and altered postures can be cause for concern. This may mean your loved one is forgetting to eat or neglecting it on purpose. Memory care facilities will make sure all residents are getting the nourishment they need.

What Is Assisted Living?

Simply put, assisted living facilities are perfect for senior citizens with few medical issues. Of course, problems can arise in the future, but for the time being assisted living may be the best choice for the healthy senior citizens. Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease can be unfortunate and inevitable parts of life.

Assisted living arrangements will provide activities and care to help stave off or limit the effects of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Most facilities will assist in basic daily functions, with senior citizens suffering from dementia generally offered extra help performing these tasks.

Assisted living arrangements can vary based on whatever the prospective resident desires. Most will offer private and/or studio apartments, with 24-hour staff available for any assistance or guidance. This is the perfect living style for those who are mostly independent but will require help with some activities.

What Is Memory Care?

Memory care units are available specifically for residents in need of more supervision and assistance. Memory care, often referred to as Alzheimer’s care units or special care units, are ideal for senior citizens with mental or physical issues. Memory care units can either exist within an assisted living facility or act as a stand-alone, in some cases.

Just like assisted living arrangements, 24-hour staff will occupy the memory care units. Think of memory care units as the same as assisted living communities, just equipped with more care and medical supervision.

Much like assisted living offerings, a plethora of activities will be offered in memory care housing. These activities and games are utilized for mental stimulation. Slowing any signs of dementia is crucial when playing cards or listening to a musical act in these units. The chance to socialize in a group gathering is just another benefit for residents.

Differences Between Memory Care And Assisted Living

While the two living situations may seem very similar on paper, it’s vital to understand just how the two communities differ. For example, memory care will definitely value safety more. An emphasis is put on safety while also respecting individual lifestyles.

Memory care facilities are highly trained to deal with dementia. Dementia makes even the most routine of tasks very difficult, and memory care staffs are there to assist to every need.

Specialized activities will draw many to memory care units. Activities will be designed to stimulate the mind and help those wishing for social interaction at the same time.

Memory Care At Desert Winds Retirement In Peoria, Arizona 

If you are searching for a memory care facility in Peoria, Arizona, Desert Winds Retirement Community is the facility for you! Travel over to our memory care page to see pictures find out more about our facility, amenities, floor plans and more.

More Articles About Senior Living

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