When looking for a senior community, it is important to understand the difference between assisted living and memory care. These two types of senior housing are very different, and ensuring that you or a loved one gets the right level of care is crucial for the quality of life. Both options offer housing for older adults who need help with daily activities, but they do so in different ways. Learning more about assisted living vs. memory care can help you get to know which may provide the most appropriate level of care so you can make the right choice.
At Calder Woods, we want to make senior assisted living as easy and enjoyable as possible for our residents and their families. To help make your decision simple, we provide a full continuum of care, including memory care and assisted living. You or a loved one can call Calder Woods your home throughout your senior years, no matter how your needs change over time. Contact us today at 409.407.7636 to discuss senior living options in our beautiful Texas senior community.
What Is the Difference Between Assisted Living and Memory Care?
Assisted living is for adults who need help with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, and cooking but can still handle some activities independently. Adults living in an assisted living facility mostly live independently but still receive help with daily tasks. They do not require a high level of supervision like adults in memory care.
Memory care and assisted living are not the same types of senior housing. Memory care is for people with dementia or other memory disorders who require more supervision than independent living or assisted living facilities can provide.
When researching senior living services for yourself or a loved one, it is essential to understand the distinction between memory care vs assisted living.
Assisted Living vs. Memory Care
To help you understand which level of care is ideal for you or a senior in your life, it is essential to understand the differences between assisted living and memory care. Here are some of the primary differences:
- Memory care facilities have specialized staff – Since residents have dementia or other memory disorders, the staff has to be trained to care for the issues that can arise with these conditions. They are taught how to assist residents who are feeling confused, upset, or out of sorts to help them calm down.
- Assisted living offers more independence – Although assisted living facilities provide plenty of activities and social opportunities, residents can go about their day as they please. They receive help with daily tasks when needed, but otherwise, they are given their privacy as desired.
- Memory care facilities are specially designed for the needs of people with memory disorders – Since people with Alzheimer’s or dementia may sometimes become frightened or agitated, the facility is designed to reduce stress levels. The floor plan may be set up so that there are no dead ends, and additional security is provided so residents do not wander or get lost.
- Assisted living and memory care facilities offer different types of activities – Memory care activities focus on providing healthy stimulation for the residents and supporting cognitive function. Activities provided in assisted living facilities are also engaging, but they are primarily offered for fun and recreation.
Choosing the right level of care for yourself or a loved one can make all the difference in getting the most out of senior living. If you suspect that someone may be struggling with a memory disorder or may be at high risk for Alzheimer’s or dementia, it is best to visit your doctor to get a proper diagnosis. This can help you determine if memory care is necessary.
What Is Memory Care?
While discussing the difference between assisted living and memory care, it is essential to remember that memory care is very specific to individuals experiencing severe cognitive decline, like dementia or Alzheimer’s. As we age, we all experience some cognitive decline, but many seniors do not require specialized care.
Memory care is for individuals who have been diagnosed with dementia, Alzheimer’s, or another form of memory loss. These facilities are designed to provide:
- Specialized care – Memory care communities are staffed with professionals who are trained in caring for individuals with memory disorders. This includes understanding their unique needs, knowing how to communicate effectively, and being able to handle potential situations that arise due to the residents’ conditions.
- Therapeutic activities – These communities provide activities that are designed to stimulate the brain and slow cognitive decline. Activities can range from memory games and puzzles to art and music therapy, all geared toward promoting cognitive function and overall well-being.
- Safe environment – Memory care facilities are designed with security in mind to prevent residents from wandering off and getting lost. This includes secure entrances and exits, enclosed outdoor spaces, and constant supervision.
Assisted living communities offer many services and amenities for a diverse population of senior residents, but memory care is designed for a specific population of seniors.
Contact Calder Woods Today for Assisted Living and Memory Care
Whatever your senior assisted living needs, Calder Woods has the perfect senior living options for you. Reach out to us today at 409.407.7636 or contact Calder Woods online to tour our facilities and learn more about the services and amenities offered for each level of care.