Assisted living and memory care are senior living options that cater to the specific needs of older adults. While they may share some similarities, they offer different services and levels of care for varying needs.

Determining whether you or a loved one needs assisted living or memory care comes down to the level of support they require for their activities of daily living or cognitive impairments.

What Is Assisted Living?

Assisted living is a type of senior living community that provides assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, and medication management. These communities also offer services such as housekeeping, transportation, and meals.

Assisted living is designed for older adults who can maintain some independence but need additional support to carry out certain tasks. It allows them to have their own private apartment with access to assistance and medical care when needed.

Some assisted living communities also have specialized care services for those with chronic conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or diabetes. Many offer social activities and services to build community and improve quality of life.

What Is Memory Care?

Memory care is a specialized form of assisted living for those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. These communities offer personalized care and support tailored to each resident’s unique needs. Memory care communities have staff trained in managing challenging behaviors and providing memory-stimulating activities.

The goal of memory care is to create a safe and comfortable environment for individuals with memory impairments, allowing them to maintain their dignity and independence for as long as possible. These programs may involve structured routines, visual cues and familiar objects, and specialized therapies to help improve cognitive functioning.

Memory care also offers 24-hour supervision and assistance with ADLs, meals, medication management, and housekeeping services. Some communities may also have secure outdoor areas for residents to safely enjoy nature.

How to Identify the Right Level of Care

Helping a loved one navigate memory loss can be a journey filled with both challenges and opportunities. Choosing the right level of care is a crucial part of that journey. Some assisted living communities offer memory care on-site, while others partner with nearby communities to provide specialized care. It is important to thoroughly research and tour different options to find the best fit for your loved one’s needs.

Factors like age, physical and mental health, and personal preferences all play a role. A professional assessment from a healthcare provider can also help determine the appropriate level of care needed.

Regardless of the type of care chosen, have open and honest communication with your loved one and the staff in the community. This can help ensure that all needs are being met and any changes in care can be addressed promptly.

Here are some factors to consider when choosing a care community for your loved one:

Physical health:
- Can your loved one easily manage stairs? Do they require assistance getting dressed or bathing?
- If mobility is a concern, look for communities with single-story layouts or elevators that offer on-site therapists or assistance with ADLs.
Mental health:
- Does your loved one experience confusion or memory lapses? Do they need help following directions or making decisions?
- Look for communities with staff trained in dementia care and security features like secure courtyards or monitored exits if wandering is a concern.
Personal preferences:
- What kind of environment would your loved one thrive in? Do they enjoy social interaction or prefer a quieter setting?
- Tour different communities and see which ones offer the amenities and activities best suit their personality. Look for communities with outdoor spaces, common areas for socializing, or opportunities to pursue hobbies.
Level of care needed:
- Does your loved one need help with medication management or reminders for daily tasks? Can they safely cook for themselves or bathe independently?
- Assisted living communities typically offer assistance with ADLs, while memory care provides more intensive supervision and support. Talk to the staff about their care plans and how they can adapt to your loved one’s changing needs.

By considering these factors and discussing them with your loved one, you can make an informed decision on the appropriate level of care for them.

Tips for a Smooth Transition

Moving into a senior living community can be an overwhelming experience for both you and your loved one. To help ease the transition, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Involve your loved one in the decision-making process as much as possible.
Tour multiple communities and ask plenty of questions to find the right fit.
Plan ahead and allow time for your loved one to adjust to their new surroundings.
Communicate openly with the staff and address any concerns or preferences.
Ensure all necessary medical information and medications are readily available to the staff.
Help your loved one personalize their living space to make it feel more like home.
Stay connected and visit regularly, but give your loved one space to settle in.
Encourage participation in community activities and events to promote socialization.
Be patient and understanding as your loved one adjusts to their new home.

Remember to also take care of yourself during this time, as it can be emotionally challenging for family members as well.

Personalized Care at Peregrine Senior Living at Shaker

At Peregrine Senior Living at Shaker, we understand the importance of finding the right community for your loved one. Our compassionate staff and personalized care plans are designed to recognize and celebrate the unique traits of each person. Contact us today to learn more about our services and schedule a tour. Let us help you make this transition a positive experience for you and your family.