When it comes to finding appropriate living arrangements for seniors, the choices can be overwhelming. One of the most important choices families have to make is whether or not to select standard assisted living or memory care. Knowing the differences can help them make an informed choice based on the requirements of an individual.
Understanding Assisted Living
Assisted living in Ogden, UT, is for seniors who require help with everyday activities. This involves bathing, dressing, and management of medication, among other tasks. It provides a balance of freedom and accessibility, where residents can live independently but with the means to receive assistance.
The setting is usually homelike, with private or semi-private rooms. Often, residents share a communal dining space and participate in various social activities. The goal is to create an environment that promotes well-being and socialization.
Exploring Memory Care
Memory care is a specialized level of supportive care for people with memory impairments. These conditions include Alzheimer’s and dementia. It’s not like traditional assisted living, where the routines are structured around a facility’s established schedule and menu of activities, which residents largely adapt to. In memory care, it is the other way around: the routines are developed to cater to the needs of each resident.
Highly secured areas to deter wandering (a constant worry for dementia patients) are a common aspect of many facilities. Staff are specially trained to deal with the issues related to loss of memory.
Differences in How They Approach Care
The main difference between regular assisted living and memory care is the way that care is provided. Memory care involves a greater degree of supervision and specialized training. It becomes essential for staff to be skilled in behavior management and be able to offer emotional support to residents who are experiencing memory loss.
Memory care units often offer therapeutic programs as well. This type of program emphasizes improving memory and emotional balance. Conversely, traditional assisted living is primarily focused on providing general assistance with daily living activities.
Safety and Security Measures
Safety is one of the top priorities in memory care settings. Often, facilities will reinforce security to protect residents. These measures consist of a secured entrance and exit to prevent wandering. Security systems may detect the movements of residents within the unit.
Many assisted living communities typically include features related to general safety. Their core value is also safety, but memory care may require additional measures as they cater to those with a memory-related impairment.
Staff Training and Expertise
The final major difference is staff training. Staff members in memory care receive special training on dementia and related conditions. This prepares them to deliver compassionate, effective care that meets residents’ particular needs.
In a more traditional assisted living setting, staff members are dedicated to helping residents with day-to-day tasks and keeping every resident safe. Although they receive quality care training, it does not specifically address memory care.
Tailored Environment and Activities
Memory care facilities are built to meet the needs of their residents. To reduce confusion and make the environment as comforting as possible, facilities tend to rely on certain design aspects. For individuals who may have difficulties with orientation and anxiety, color-coded hallways, signs, and memory boxes can be helpful.
Memory care activities are designed to connect with dementia patients. These activities highlight cognition, senses, and socialization. On the other hand, traditional assisted living can provide a more diverse selection of activities to suit different interests and skill levels.
Family Involvement and Support
The involvement of families is essential in both forms of care. However, memory care tends to prioritize educating and supporting families. There are often support groups and counseling services available. Traditional assisted living also allows for family interaction and involvement with an emphasis on strengthening relationships and attending community events.
Conclusion
Before deciding on a care facility, families should understand the difference between assisted living and memory care. Both provide good support but cater to different needs. By taking personal situations and preferences into account, families can make the right choice that provides the best care and comfort for their loved ones.
