According to Genworth’s Cost of Care Survey, every day until 2030, 10,000 baby boomers will turn 65, and 7 out of 10 people will require long-term care in their lifetime. Many will require help with personal care, cognitive decline, or memory loss.
Assisted living and memory care communities can help seniors and their families with both.
This article will explain everything you need to know about assisted living and memory care communities, including the differences and levels of care.
What is assisted living?
Assisted living communities are designed for seniors who want to maintain their independence but need some help with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, toileting, and grooming.
Assistant living communities have a home-like setting where residents can choose from private or semi-private fully furnished studio and one-bedroom apartment suites.
What is memory care?
Memory care communities are specifically designed to care for cognitive impairments such as Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Memory care communities offer many of the same amenities and services provided at assisted living communities.
Similarities between assisted living & memory care
Assisted living and memory care communities are designed to keep residents safe and secure. Assisted living and memory care communities provide residents with high comfort levels and convenience.
Many senior living communities like Seasons Senior Living have assisted living and memory care services in one location. Check out some of the amazing assisted living and memory care amenities and services offered at Seasons Largo in Pinellas County, FL:
- Assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) like, bathing, dressing, and toileting
- Nutritious and delicious chef-prepared meals and snacks
- 24/7 emergency response call systems
- Housekeeping and laundry services
- Scheduled transportation
- Full calendar of engaging outings and special events
- Sports bar
- Community theater
- Billiards room
- Pet therapy
- Salon
- Library
- Juice bar
- Aviary
- Therapy gym
Differences between assisted living and memory care
Although both types of communities provide high levels of services and amenities, some distinct differences exist between assisted living and memory care communities.
Training & staff differences
Staff in assisted living communities are trained to assist residents with personal care and basic tasks.
Memory care communities employ staff members that are specifically trained to care for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Staff in memory care communities provide around-the-clock care plans customized to residents’ individual needs.
Security differences
Assisted living communities have security measures such as onsite security, emergency protocols, and keyless entry.
However, seniors with memory loss are more at risk of getting lost or injured due to confusion, wandering, and personality changes. Memory care communities have a more structured environment with premium safety features, including:
- Low profile beds
- 24/7 onsite staff
- Calming color schemes to combine safely with familiarity and comfort
- Locked entrances and exits
- Keypad entries
- Motion activated lighting
Social activity differences
Assisted living and memory care communities plan and organize various events and activities to keep residents busy.
The critical difference is that memory care communities plan events and activities to engage and support seniors with memory loss.
Wrap-up and next steps
Whether you’re looking for assisted living or memory care, many senior living communities will meet your needs.
If you live in Largo, Florida and have questions or would like to schedule a tour, contact the caring team at Seasons Senior Living.
