What’s the Difference Between Memory Care and Residential Assisted Living?

Assisted Living Network Podcast

Deciding if your loved one needs more advanced memory care can be an incredibly difficult decision. In today's episode, we’ll break down the key differences between assisted living and memory care to help you determine what level of care may be required. We’ll also provide some telltale signs that it may be time to transition to memory care and tips to make that move as smooth as possible.

Here are a few signs that it may be time to transition a loved one to memory care:

• Safety is at risk (getting lost, unsafe living conditions)
• Needs are not being met (bills not getting paid, hygiene being neglected)
• Losing track of time and destinations when leaving home

Here are the main differences between assisted living and memory care:

• Staffing & Licensing: Memory care staff require additional training and higher level licenses to be able to provide appropriate care. They are paid more as a result.
• Safety: Memory care facilities have locked and obscured exits, keypad locks, and doorbell alerts to keep residents safe.
• Licensing: The physical building needs a different type of license to house memory care residents.
• Cost: Memory care costs $1,000-$1,500 more per month than regular assisted living.

Activities for residents in a memory home are also going to be specifically tailored to their needs. When structuring activities for memory care residents, it's important to provide engagement while supporting their retained abilities. Matching activities directly to what residents can successfully participate in ensures appropriate cognitive and physical stimulation.

Failure-free activities without strict metrics of winning and losing also help reduce frustration. Cooking, gardening, textured balloon volleyball, and adaptive technology like the Tovertafel system all provide ways for memory care residents to engage without the stress of reaching quantified targets. Focusing on enjoyable involvement rather than specific outcomes offers activity opportunities they can genuinely achieve.

As difficult as it may be, understanding when a move to memory care is necessary can bring great peace of mind that your loved one is getting the appropriate level of care in a safe environment.

Equipped with a better knowledge of what sets memory care facilities apart from traditional assisted living, you can make the best decision for you and your family’s situation. Be sure to tap into resources like specialized memory care training for practical guidance. Most importantly, don’t forget to also prioritize self-care during this challenging time.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Tovertafel: https://www.tover.care/us/

Teepa Snow - A Positive Approach to Care Pack: https://teepasnow.com/

Memory Care Training through RAL Academy: https://residentialassistedlivingacademy.com/memory-care/

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