When a loved one begins to need more support with daily life, the search for the right care setting can feel overwhelming. This is especially true when the options aren't always clearly explained.
Two of the most common choices families encounter are assisted living and memory care, and while they may sound similar, they serve very different needs. Understanding the key differences between the two can help you make a more confident, informed decision for the person you care about most.
Memory care facilities provide their residents with a very specialized type of assisted living that is catered specifically towards individuals with dementia . With this in mind, memory care facilities are different to traditional assisted living accommodations.
A memory care community hires professionally-trained staff who are skilled in communicating with and caring for residents who have dementia. They know how best to work with dementia patients, treating them with empathy, dignity and respect. Staff with specialized training ensures that every resident is supported and can feel more relaxed in day-to-day activities.
Memory care also places a strong emphasis on enrichment activities with therapeutic aspects. For example, music therapy and other types of musical entertainment are typical in memory care facilities since research has found that music can boost memory in individuals with cognitive impairment.
Finally, memory care facilities will typically incorporate extra security to provide a safe environment for its residents and team members.
Assisted living facilities can support seniors in various ways, and are not solely designed for dementia or Alzheimer’s patients. These facilities are generally designed to address loneliness, autonomy, and everyday living – all in a setting that feels like home.
Assisted living communities typically offer seniors apartments and give them access to communal dinners, social areas, maintenance services, and fun activities. The residents look after themselves with some additional support from professionally trained caregivers.
The extent of help can vary depending on how much support each resident requires. Caregivers can assist with plenty of different tasks, such as getting dressed, taking the correct medication, and taking a bath. So, if your loved one finds it difficult to complete any of these daily activities, an assisted living community may be the ideal solution.
Explore our vast range of sensory solutions to see how we can help your loved one today. If you require any assistance when shopping on our site and selecting the best products for you, please don’t hesitate to contact us , and a member of our committed team will happily offer you the guidance you need as soon as possible.
Andy Roussey is the president of Experia USA with over 30 years of experience in manufacturing sensory equipment. He has a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Management with a minor in Industrial Engineering, and has designed over 75 sensory products. He's also married with two children.
