Is Memory Care Part of Assisted Living?
Key Summary
Learn about Memory Care, Assisted Living, when they are both together, how they are similar and different, when is the right time to make a move from Assisted Living to Memory Care, and the average costs associated with both.
If your loved one is experiencing memory issues such as dementia or Alzheimer’s, a Memory Care Community can give them the care and support that they need. There are various types of Memory Care Communities, and the best fit for your loved one may depend on their unique, specific medical needs and current level of independence.
Some Memory Care Community options include an Adult Day Center, Residential Care, Respite Care, and In-Home Care. Memory Care can also be a part of Assisted Living, but it depends on the circumstances. In this article, we will do a deep dive into Memory Care, and Assisted Living, how they are similar and different, when is the right time to make a move from Assisted Living to Memory Care, as well as the average costs associated for both.
Assisted Living vs. Memory Care
Assisted Living Communities are usually designed for people seeking a supportive atmosphere, but one that still gives them a sense of independence. These communities have a trained, nurturing staff to help with daily living activities and also offer residents exciting social events in which they can participate. In an Assisted Living Community, your loved one can lighten the burden of performing activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, moving about or using the restroom with the help of our friendly and caring staff. They can also receive assistance managing daily medications, and keeping their apartment clean. As a resident in Assisted Living, your loved one can benefit from the right balance of independence and support.
Memory Care is a specialized type of long-term care tailored for those living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of progressive-degenerative dementia. When an Assisted Living Community or Skilled Nursing Facility can no longer provide all needed services, moving to a welcoming and life-enhancing Memory Care Community is the best next step.
Both Assisted Living and Memory Care Communities have a trained, nurturing staff to help with daily living activities and offer residents many different social events and programs. Similar to Assisted Living, Memory Care Communities can also help your loved one with ADLs. However, Memory Care provides more services and specialized care for seniors with memory difficulties, such as Alzheimer's and dementia.
Memory Care Communities are designed with unique layouts to help residents with confusion and disorientation (i.e., color-coded walls and outdoor areas, etc.). They also offer more security and support for residents who have the tendency to wander.
Furthermore, a Memory Care Community will have higher staff to resident ratios as well as activities designed specifically for Memory Care residents.
Assisted Living with Memory Care
Assisted Living communities can have Memory Care services in the same building. In this case, the memory care unit will have a specialized wing or floor for residents with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, often called Memory Care Neighborhoods. This separate, specialized area for Memory Care residents will have increased security, as well as tailored layouts, therapies, amenities, and services.
These combination properties are an excellent option for seniors with early-stage dementia because they will be well suited in Assisted Living initially, and then move to Memory Care when needed. If you’re interested in learning more about dementia care, read our next article “Is Memory Care the Same as Dementia Care and Alzheimer's Care?”
When to Move from Assisted Living to Memory Care
The care staff will perform a thorough assessment with your loved one to better understand their unique medical and personal needs. This assessment will help determine your loved one's level of care on a scale of 1 to 5, based on how many ADLs they will need assistance with.
You may be informed eventually that it is time to move your loved one from Assisted Living to Memory Care because it will better suit their care requirements. When safety (i.e., wandering) and dignity issues (i.e., possible aggression) become present, it may be time to change your loved one's care plan.
Memory Care Community Cost
With increased medical staff personnel, greater supervision, and a higher staff to resident ratio, the cost of Memory Care can exceed the cost of Assisted Living. The price will differ based on location, housing type, and level of specialized care services. On average, the cost for a private room in a Memory Care Community can range from $6,000 to $12,000, according to the 2022 Genworth Cost of Care Survey.
Find a Memory Care Community Near You
Memory Care Communities provide many opportunities for support. If your loved one needs increased care, the best option for support will be a Memory Care Community. Let Referah’s team help you find the right services to meet your loved one’s needs. Search for a local Memory Care Community near you.