Did you know that, according to a 2021 study, an estimated 10% of American seniors are living with dementia? While this represents a significant number of people, it also means that 90% of seniors do not.
If you have started navigating the wide array of senior living options, you’ve no doubt encountered these terms: assisted living and memory care. Both are great options for seniors seeking extra support in their golden years. However, it is important to understand the differences between these communities.
In this post, we will answer the question, what is the difference between assisted living and memory care? We’ll see who can benefit from these senior care levels and how you can make the best choice for your loved one.
Assisted Living: An Enriching Community for Independent Seniors
Assisted living options vary depending on the specific community you are evaluating. However, they generally focus on providing a community for independent seniors who need some support with the activities of daily living.
Residents enjoy their own private homes, which they decorate and furnish according to their tastes. They also have access to shared amenities, such as restaurants, fitness centers, activity rooms, and more, to enjoy enriching activities with other residents.
Key Features of Assisted Living Options
One of the major benefits of assisted living communities is the access to caretaker support 24 hours a day. Trained support workers can assist with:
- Going to the bathroom
- Showering and grooming
- Getting dressed
- Preparing food and eating
- Walking
- Getting in and out of bed
Assisted living communities can also assist with medication management. However, it is important to note that they do not have medically trained staff on-site. Seniors who require ongoing medical care may benefit from a nursing home instead of an assisted living community.
When an elderly person starts living at an assisted living community, they may need support with just one or two of the activities of daily living. As their needs change, their care plan can be updated to provide extra support. This gives peace of mind to the older person and to their family.
Social Engagement
Assisted living communities offer many opportunities to engage socially with friends, family, and other seniors living in the community. Invite your friends and family to visit you in your private apartment, or enjoy walking around the grounds together.
Each community has a packed activity calendar, with something happening every day to bring people together. This may include:
- Fitness classes
- Arts and crafts
- Movie night and matinees
- Games and puzzles
- Book clubs
- Outings to local attractions
Sadly, the 2023 National Poll on Healthy Aging found that 34% of seniors felt lonely. But there is no need to be lonely in an assisted living community. You can engage with other residents as much or as little as you like and have a lot of fun at the same time.
Is Assisted Living Right for You?
We understand that moving to assisted living is a big decision. Hearing the comments of other residents can help. Check out the testimonials page of the community you are evaluating and see what they have to say.
Memory-related conditions are another consideration for seniors. While assisted living provides significant support, it is not equipped for individuals with advanced memory issues. If your loved one requires dementia support, memory care services may be a better fit.
Memory Care Services: Specialist Dementia Support
Memory care services are similar to assisted living. However, they are designed to provide tailored support to individuals with:
- Cognitive difficulties
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Other forms of dementia
They provide additional resources in addition to the support, amenities, and activities found in assisted living. This support helps seniors face the unique challenges associated with memory loss.
Structured Environment
Memory care communities are designed to reduce confusion and promote safety. Their layouts are carefully planned to be easy to navigate for seniors with memory difficulties. Calming decor is used to help residents remain relaxed and feel safe and secure.
Specialized Programs
Activities in memory care services are designed to stimulate cognitive function and give residents a sense of purpose and enjoyment in life. They may include art therapy, music classes, and memory games.
According to Lesley University, art therapy can help in the following ways:
- Maintain connections with the world around them
- Provide an outlet for self-expression
- Create new memories
- Reduce anxiety and agitation
Specially Trained Staff
Caregivers in memory care communities have been specially trained to support people with dementia and other memory and cognitive challenges. This includes:
- Managing behavioral challenges
- Navigating communication difficulties
- Supporting residents’ emotional needs
The management team ensures that residents visit their healthcare providers regularly to maintain optimal physical and mental health. The result is memory care that is consistent and compassionate and helps residents to enjoy life.
Senior Housing Comparisons: What Is the Difference Between Assisted Living and Memory Care?
The main difference between assisted living and memory care is their focus.
Assisted living focuses on supporting seniors who are mainly independent to remain as independent as possible. These communities provide 24/7 support that can increase as time goes on. However, they are not set up to care for people with long-term serious health conditions.
Memory care communities provide similar support services but focus on dementia support. Trained caretakers help residents remain safe, calm, and engaged. Activities are tailored to the needs of seniors with memory challenges and may help slow down cognitive decline.
Why TerraBella Rock Hill Is the Right Choice
We hope this post has clearly answered the question, what is the difference between assisted living and memory care? However, at TerraBella Rock Hill, you do not have to choose. We are proud to offer assisted living and memory care communities here on one site.
So whether your loved one just needs an extra helping hand or requires tailored dementia support, you have come to the right community. Both our communities focus on helping seniors get the very best out of their senior years.
Why not come and see how good life at TerraBella Rock Hill can be? Contact us today to schedule a tour.
