Making the decision to move a loved one to an assisted living or memory care community can be difficult. Understanding the differences between the two types of care is essential in order to make an informed decision on which is best.
Assisted living provides personalized care, while memory care focuses more heavily on specialized services and activities designed specifically for those with dementia-related illnesses.
Let’s explore each option in detail so that you can determine which type of senior housing will provide the level of support needed for a comfortable lifestyle.
Assisted Living
Assisted living communities are designed for seniors who need assistance with daily activities but also want to maintain as much independence and freedom as possible.
These communities offer private apartments and communal spaces such as dining areas, activity rooms, and outdoor spaces.
In an assisted living community, residents typically have access to 24-hour care and support, assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing and dressing, medication management, and nutritionally balanced meals.
Assisted living may be a good option if you or your loved one:
- Needs some level of assistance with daily activities but can still manage some tasks independently;
- Wants to live in a social environment with opportunities to participate in activities and events;
- Requires some level of medical assistance but not ongoing medical treatment.
Memory Care
Memory care communities are specifically designed for seniors diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia.
These communities offer specialized care and support to residents and are typically more secure than assisted living communities to prevent wandering and other safety concerns.
Memory care communities offer private or semi-private rooms and common areas such as dining rooms, activity rooms, and secure outdoor spaces.
In a memory care community, residents typically receive 24-hour care and support tailored to their needs. It includes assistance with activities of daily living, medication management, and behavioral support.
Memory care communities have staff who are trained in specialized care techniques for those with dementia and who are equipped to handle challenging behaviors.
Memory care may be a good option if your loved one:
- Has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia;
- Requires specialized care and support for behavioral and cognitive issues associated with dementia;
- Needs a more secure living environment to prevent wandering and other safety concerns;
- Is looking for a community specifically designed to meet the needs of those with dementia.
How To Decide Between Assisted Living & Memory Care
The decision between assisted living and memory care comes down to individual needs and preferences. It’s important to carefully weigh the options and consider all factors when making this decision. You’ll want to consider a few factors when deciding between assisted living and memory care.
Level of Care Needed
One of the primary differences between assisted living and memory care is the level of care provided.
Assisted living is designed for seniors who need some level of assistance with daily activities but are still relatively independent.
On the other hand, memory care is designed for seniors who require specialized care and support for cognitive and behavioral issues associated with dementia.
Safety Concerns
Memory care communities are typically more secure than assisted living communities, with locked doors and other safety measures to prevent wandering and other concerns.
If wandering is a concern, memory care may be a better option.
Social Preferences
Assisted living communities offer more opportunities for socialization and engagement, with communal dining areas, activity rooms, and outdoor spaces.
However, memory care communities also offer socialization opportunities specifically tailored to those with dementia.
Budget
Cost is also a significant factor to consider when deciding between assisted living and memory care.
Memory care, with its specialized care and additional safety measures, is typically more expensive than assisted living.
Consider The Lodge at Historic Lewes for Your Assisted Living or Memory Care Needs
Choosing between assisted living and memory care can be difficult, but with the right information, you can make an informed choice that meets your or your loved one’s needs.
At The Lodge at Historic Lewes, we offer both assisted living and memory care options for seniors, with beautiful amenities and expert care.
Contact us today to learn more about our community and how we can support you or your loved one in this next chapter of life.
