What Is ELEMENTS Memory Support?
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What Is ELEMENTS Memory Support?

ELEMENTS is a signature memory support (or memory care) program offered by SLS Communities, including at Desert Winds in Peoria, Arizona. Senior Living Services+1 It’s designed for older adults living with memory loss — whether due to Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia — and aims to provide both safety and quality of life, with both clinical care and supportive, social, emotional, and environmental components. Senior Living Services+1

EL­E­M­E­N­T­S is actually an acronym; each letter represents a guiding principle of the program:

Letter Principle And Practice  
Engaged Dynamic activities & personalized engagement — using meaningful activities to stimulate residents mentally, socially, and emotionally Senior Living Services+1  
Lifestyle Community involvement & lifelong learning — encouraging residents to continue learning, exploring interests, engaging with the community around them Desert Winds Retirement Community+1  
Empowered Supportive environment & individual choice — recognizing autonomy as much as possible, giving residents choices in daily living Desert Winds Retirement Community+1  
Moments Encouragement with a strength-based approach — focusing on what the person can do, not just what they’ve lost; celebrating small victories and moments of connection Desert Winds Retirement Community+1  
Enhanced Secured environment & accessible design — safety features, secure areas, layouts that reduce confusion or risk, built for ease of movement, etc. Senior Living Services+1  
Neighborhood Vibrant social spaces — having areas that feel communal, encouraging social interaction, giving opportunities for folks to feel part of a community rather than isolated Desert Winds Retirement Community+1  
Trusted Open communications & safe practices — transparent communication with families, trusted care, staff trained to handle the challenges of memory loss in a professional, compassionate way Senior Living Services+1  
Support Nationally certified dementia care staff — caregivers are trained / certified in dementia care; ongoing training; expertise to respond to changing needs. Senior Living Services+1  

In addition to safety and care, the ELEMENTS program emphasizes enriched experiences: tailored dining, meaningful activities, personal choice, etc. At Desert Winds, for example, dining is presented not just as fuel, but as part of quality of life — with fresh ingredients, menus adapted to residents’ preferences and nutritional needs, and an inviting environment. Desert Winds Retirement Community

Why ELEMENTS is Helpful

ELEMENTS Memory Support provides multiple benefits for both residents and their families. Here are some of the key advantages:

  1. Safety and Security
    Memory loss often brings risks: getting lost (wandering), confusion, unsafe use of appliances, etc. The “Enhanced” (secured environment) part of ELEMENTS addresses this — via secure layouts, monitoring, accessible design, etc. Families often feel more at ease. Senior Living Services+1

  2. Person-Centered Care
    Rather than a one-size-fits-all routine, ELEMENTS looks at each individual’s history, preferences, capabilities. This empowers residents, preserving dignity and identity. For instance, the strength-based approach honors what residents can do, rather than repeatedly focusing on losses. Senior Living Services+1

  3. Cognitive and Emotional Engagement
    Memory support programs must address more than physical safety — emotional well-being is critical. ELEMENTS provides dynamic activities, social interaction, mental stimulation, and opportunities for residents to connect, which can slow decline, improve mood, reduce feelings of isolation. Desert Winds Retirement Community+1

  4. Quality of Life Improvements
    The focus on dining, environment, social neighborhood, meaningful moments all help make daily living more enjoyable. Pleasant meals, friendships, familiar surroundings, personal choices contribute to better overall satisfaction. Desert Winds Retirement Community+1

  5. Support for Families
    Families of people with memory loss often bear stress: worry about safety, about declining abilities, etc. A program like ELEMENTS offers transparency, trained staff, and a structure that can relieve some of that burden. Also, communication and trusted practices help families stay involved and informed. Senior Living Services+1

Who Element­s Memory Support is a Good Choice For

ELEMENTS is not right for every senior or every situation, but it fits very well in many cases. Here are the kinds of people (and families) who tend to benefit from this type of program, and situations in which it may make sense:

  • Individuals with mild to moderate memory loss — Early to middle stages of Alzheimer’s or other dementias, where there still is capacity for engagement, where environments, activities, and support can significantly help maintain functioning.

  • People who are unsafe living alone — If someone wanders, forgets medications, leaves stoves on, etc., then a secure environment with trained staff is safer.

  • Those who need help with daily living — Even if not requiring full nursing care, people who struggle with daily tasks (bathing, dressing, meal prep) may benefit from a memory-support community.

  • Families seeking more than just physical safety — If maintaining identity, personal dignity, social interaction, emotional well-being are priorities, ELEMENTS is strong. It’s especially useful for families who want an approach that is holistic, compassionate, and gives choice rather than rigid structure.

  • When environment matters — Design, layout, social spaces, dining, accessible design matter for quality of life. ELEMENTS seeks to address those, not just medical or custodial care.

  • When staff expertise and consistency are important — Certified staff trained in dementia care, stable care teams, attention to changing needs. ELEMENTS has this built in. Senior Living Services+1

Considerations / What to Check

To decide if ELEMENTS at Desert Winds (or any facility) is truly right, there are some things to review / ask about:

  • How advanced is the resident’s memory loss? If very advanced, more intensive medical or nursing care might be needed.

  • The cost: memory support programs tend to cost more than basic assisted living because of higher staffing, specialized features, and security.

  • Staff turnover: high turnover can disrupt continuity of care.

  • The physical layout: how secure is “secured environment”; how confusing might the layout be for someone with dementia.

  • Quality of food and variety, activity schedule, resident to staff ratios.

  • Communication: how well does staff communicate with families; how is individual resident preference honored.

Is It Right For You Or Your Loved One?

ELEMENTS Memory Support at Desert Winds (and in SLS Communities generally) offers an integrated, holistic care program designed for older adults living with memory loss. It combines safety and security with dignity, personal choice, engaging activities, and an environment built to reduce confusion and promote connection. For many seniors and their families, it represents a strong balance of care and quality of life — especially for those in the earlier to middle stages of dementia, or for those who need help with daily living but still want an environment that supports independence, community, and identity.

 

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

 

Memory Care, What Is ELEMENTS Memory Support?
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What Is ELEMENTS Memory Support?
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Written by webtechs

Understanding Assisted Living and Memory Care

Sure! Here’s a clear overview of Assisted Living and Memory Care to help you understand the differences and what each offers:

Assisted Living

What it is:
Assisted living is a residential option for older adults or people with disabilities who need some help with daily activities but want to maintain independence.

Who it’s for:

  • Seniors who need help with things like bathing, dressing, medication management, or meal preparation.

  • People who want a social environment with opportunities for activities and community interaction.

Services typically include:

  • Assistance with daily living activities (ADLs)

  • Medication reminders or administration

  • Housekeeping and laundry

  • Meals served in a common dining area

  • Transportation to appointments or errands

  • Social and recreational programs

  • 24/7 staff availability for safety and emergencies

Living environment:

  • Private or semi-private apartments or rooms

  • Community common spaces for socializing

  • Usually less medical intensive than nursing homes

Memory Care

What it is:
Memory care is a specialized form of assisted living focused on caring for individuals with memory-related conditions, like Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia.

Who it’s for:

  • People with Alzheimer’s or other dementias who need a secure environment and specialized care tailored to memory loss.

  • Residents who require a higher level of supervision due to safety concerns like wandering or confusion.

Services typically include:

  • All the assistance offered in assisted living, plus:

  • Specialized programming designed for cognitive stimulation and memory support

  • Staff trained specifically in dementia care and behavior management

  • Secure, locked environments to prevent wandering

  • Structured daily routines and therapeutic activities

  • Increased supervision and monitoring

Living environment:

  • Often a distinct secured area within an assisted living or nursing facility

  • Designed to be calming, safe, and easy to navigate for those with memory challenges

Summary

Feature Assisted Living Memory Care
Primary Focus Help with daily activities and independence Specialized care for dementia and memory loss
Resident Needs Mild to moderate assistance Moderate to high supervision and care needs
Staff Training General caregiving Dementia and Alzheimer’s care
Security Standard safety measures Secured, locked environments to prevent wandering
Activities Social and recreational programs Cognitive therapies and memory-focused activities

If you’re considering these options for yourself or a loved one, the choice often depends on the level of care needed, especially around memory and safety concerns.

Can You Transition From Assisted Living to Memory Care?

You can transition from assisted living to memory care, and this happens quite often.

Here’s how that typically works:

Why Transition from Assisted Living to Memory Care?

  • A resident in assisted living may develop memory-related issues like Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia.

  • Their care needs increase, especially for supervision and safety, which assisted living might not be equipped to provide.

  • Memory care offers specialized staff training, secure environments, and tailored activities that better support cognitive decline.

How the Transition Happens

  1. Assessment:
    Care staff or healthcare professionals evaluate the resident’s cognitive and physical needs to determine if memory care is necessary.

  2. Discussion with Family and Resident:
    Families and the resident (if possible) are involved in decision-making about moving to memory care.

  3. Facility Move:
    If the assisted living community has a memory care unit, the resident can usually transfer within the same community.
    If not, they may need to move to a different facility that specializes in memory care.

  4. Adjusting Care Plan:
    Memory care involves a different care plan focused on safety, routine, and cognitive support.

Benefits of Transitioning Within the Same Community

  • Less disruption for the resident since they stay in a familiar setting

  • Staff already familiar with the resident’s needs and preferences

  • Easier for families to visit

Important:
If you or a loved one is currently in assisted living and memory issues arise, it’s a good idea to discuss options early with care managers to plan a smooth transition if needed.

Questions to Ask When Considering a Transition to Memory Care

1. About the Memory Care Program

  • What specific memory care services do you provide?

  • How is the care tailored to individuals with different stages of dementia?

  • What is the staff-to-resident ratio in the memory care unit?

  • Are staff specially trained in dementia and Alzheimer’s care? How often do they receive training?

  • What kind of activities and therapies do you offer to support cognitive health?

2. Safety and Security

  • Is the memory care area secured to prevent wandering?

  • How do you monitor residents’ safety, especially those prone to wandering or agitation?

  • What emergency procedures are in place if a resident becomes disoriented or tries to leave?

  • Are there security systems (e.g., alarms, cameras)?

3. Transition Process

  • How do you assess when a resident is ready for memory care?

  • What is the process for moving from assisted living to memory care?

  • Is the transition handled within the same community or does it require moving to a different facility?

  • How do you support residents and families during the transition?

4. Care and Medical Support

  • What medical services are available on-site or nearby?

  • How do you manage medications, especially those related to memory conditions?

  • How do you handle behavioral challenges or mood changes common in dementia?

  • Is 24/7 nursing or medical staff available?

5. Family Involvement and Communication

  • How do you keep families informed about their loved one’s condition and daily life?

  • Are family members involved in care planning?

  • What visitation policies are in place?

  • Are there support groups or resources for families?

6. Costs and Contracts

  • What is the monthly cost for memory care, and what does it include?

  • Are there additional fees for specialized services?

  • What is your policy on contract length and termination?

  • Is financial assistance or insurance accepted?

7. Quality and Reputation

  • Can you provide references or testimonials from other families?

  • What are your facility’s licensing and inspection records?

  • How do you handle complaints or concerns from residents or families?

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

 

 

Activities for Seniors, Assisted Living, Assisted Living Benefits, assisted living communities, Assisted Living Community, assisted living facility, Memory Care
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What Is ELEMENTS Memory Support?
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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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What Is ELEMENTS Memory Support?
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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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