Assisted living and memory care are both types of long-term residential care communities that provide support to aging adults with various levels of physical and cognitive needs. While both assisted living and memory care offer a range of services and support to help the residents with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and taking medications, provide a safe and supportive environment for residents to live in, and some other similar functions, it is important to understand that there are specific functions which differentiated them to meet specific needs.
If you are considering assisted living or memory care for a loved one in Archdale, NC, ultimately, you must understand that the decision between assisted living and memory care will depend on your specific needs and your budget. Therefore, it is important to understand the unique functions of and differences between the two options and how they may benefit you. Let’s take a look at some of the functions of assisted living and memory care that can inform your decision about which of the options to go for.
Assisted Living
Assisted living communities offer a level of support for aging adults who need help with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and medication management. These communities typically have a home-like atmosphere and offer social and recreational activities for residents. For aging adults who are independent but just need a little help with daily tasks, assisted living may be the right choice. Here are some other factors that differentiate assisted living from memory care.
- Cost
While both require a level of financial commitment, assisted living tends to be less expensive than memory care.
- Available Amenities
Assisted living may offer a wider range of amenities and social activities, as they cater to a broader range of needs and preferences.
- Flexibility
Assisted living may be more flexible in terms of allowing residents to come and go as they please, whereas memory care may have more restricted access to the outside.
Memory Care
Memory care is specifically designed for aging adults with memory impairments, such as Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. These facilities offer a secure environment with trained staff who are experienced in caring for aging adults with cognitive impairments. Memory care facilities often have structured daily routines and activities that are designed to stimulate the mind and provide a sense of purpose for residents.
For aging adults who are experiencing cognitive decline and require more specialized care, memory care may be the better option. Below are also some key factors that also differentiate memory care from assisted living.
- Size of Team members
Memory care typically has a higher staff-to-resident ratio, as residents may require more frequent supervision and assistance.
- Admission Criteria
Memory care may have more strict admission criteria, as they are designed to care for individuals with more severe cognitive impairments.
- Programs
Memory care may offer specialized programming and therapy to help manage symptoms of dementia, such as memory loss and confusion.
- Level of Freedom for Residents
Memory care may also have more secure environments, with locked doors and limited access to the outside, to prevent residents from wandering or getting lost.
