Memory care and assisted living are both supported housing for individuals who cannot live independently. They may have some similar services, such as assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), but there are also differences. If you are comparing memory care vs. assisted living, you must understand those differences to make the best choice for yourself or a loved one.
Why Compare Memory Care vs. Assisted Living?
There are many reasons to compare memory care and assisted living. Careful consideration ensures you find the right type of housing for your needs and situation. It also gives you a clear perspective on what care to expect at each facility and when one might be a better choice than the other.
Some choose assisted living housing only to realize memory care may have been a better choice. This causes upheaval and can lead to emotional distress and withdrawal for individuals with memory loss. It can also be very costly to make the switch.
For those who select memory care before it is needed, you may feel isolated when surrounded by others who deal with challenging cognitive difficulties. Additionally, you may be taking a much-needed space in a memory care facility from someone who genuinely needs it.
What Is Memory Care?
Memory care is a form of assisted living tailored to individuals with memory loss or other cognitive impairments. It is a popular choice for patients with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
Typical services offered in memory care include help with activities of daily living, meal preparation, and monitoring or enhanced security. Staff at these centers often have specialized training to better help residents navigate their illnesses.
There are usually varied enrichment activities tailored to individuals with memory loss. Examples of activities you might find at a memory care facility include:
- Gardening
- Movement exercises
- Music and touch therapy
- Puzzles
- Storytelling
- Therapy pet visits
You will also notice that the activities tend to be highly personalized for memory care residents. This allows them to find enrichment that is suited to their current cognitive abilities.
Many styles of housing in memory care facilities provide clean layouts that help limit confusion. For example, they may have open sight lines from the bedroom to a sitting area to help you remember where each is. There are often extra security features, such as alarms and communication devices placed throughout the suites.
What Is Assisted Living?
Assisted living is often a good choice for relatively independent people who do not need skilled care but who need some help with activities of daily living. The staff is trained to provide these basic services, but there may be only limited medical care available on-site.
Assisted living facilities typically provide the following:
- Assistance with ADLs: People choose assisted living because they need help performing basic activities of daily living. Staff at these facilities can provide help with dressing, bathing, grooming, and other similar tasks.
- Housing: Residents pay rent for an apartment or similar housing. Some assisted living facilities offer multiple floor plans so that residents can choose the best option for their needs.
- Meals: Residents who need assistance with cooking can usually arrange for facility-provided meals.
- Social Activities: Many assisted living communities arrange a full calendar of social, educational, and exercise activities geared toward residents’ interests and abilities.
- Transportation: You may find an assisted living center that offers transportation to local stores, medical centers, or attractions. This is a tremendous help for otherwise independent residents who can no longer drive themselves.
Some people choose assisted living and then eventually transition to a memory care unit. This is a good option that allows you to plan for future needs without compromising your independence.
What Are the Key Differences Between Memory Care vs. Assisted Living?
You will likely notice some key differences between the two when you compare memory care vs. assisted living. Some of the most important to consider include how spaces are arranged, what services are provided, and the staffing capabilities in each.
Physical Spaces
There are some differences in the physical environments typically found in assisted living and memory care facilities. Memory care centers may have more restricted spaces with locked doors to help keep residents safe. They also tend to use more directional cues to assist with navigation. On the other hand, residents at assisted living centers tend to live in private apartments or suites and use shared community spaces.
Provided Services
The types of services provided at each housing type can vary widely. However, memory care facilities tend to offer more specialized options, such as music therapy, where an assisted living community might host a concert instead. When you ask questions about a specific memory care center, be sure to discuss the services provided to help ensure a proper fit.
Staffing Levels
You will likely find doctors, nurses, physical therapists, and support staff at both memory care and assisted living facilities. However, there are some differences in staffing that you want to note.
Memory care providers receive intensive training in dementia-related disorders and treatments that assisted living providers may lack. Additionally, there tends to be a higher staff-to-resident ratio in memory care compared to other housing situations.
Cost
The cost of either assisted living or memory care is relatively high. However, memory care often costs a bit more than assisted living. This is due to several factors, including:
- Complex behaviors of memory care patients
- Enhanced security protocols
- Highly experienced, trained staff
- More intensive care provided to residents
Be sure to carefully compare the services included in pricing when you compare memory care vs. assisted living. Some places charge extra for things that others include, which can add significantly to your monthly bill.
So What Is Memory Care vs. Assisted Living? Which is Right for You?
At Elder Care Alliance, we know that it is important to compare memory care vs. assisted living before deciding which one best meets your physical, emotional, and social needs. Our staff is ready to help you navigate the process. We offer compassionate care in comfortable, safe housing. Contact us to schedule a visit to one of our communities.
