If you are starting to search for senior living options, two of the most common options that will pop out are memory care and assisted living. While they overlap in terms of certain services and can even be offered within the same community, the two options have large and significant differences in terms of their focus and the type of training that their team members go through. The core difference between the two is that memory care caters for individuals that are coping with dementia or other health conditions that cause memory loss whereas assisted living is designed to create an environment where older adults can live independently with support whenever they need it.
To make the distinction clearer for you, our team at Discovery Village At Sugarloaf has compiled a simple guide to the differences between memory care vs. assisted living.
Staff Training
The largest difference between the two is the type of training and experience that the team working with the residents will have. Even if they have the same titles – nurses, nursing assistants, and other aides – the staff in memory care communities will have an education that is more centered around memory loss and other symptoms associated with dementia. In fact, many states also require that every member of the staff attend continuing education classes so long as they are working in memory care.
Specialized Programs
Just as the staff is trained to better cater to those with memory-related issues, the activities and programs that are offered are also tailored to help those who are coping with cognitive decline. On top of this, older adults with dementia will also exhibit challenging behaviors like wandering or aggression. These activities are designed to better help residents to self-soothe and manage any discomforting emotions that they experience.
This manifests itself clearly during mealtimes. In memory care, some programs help those who are no longer able to focus on eating their full meal. In some cases, those suffering from dementia may also wander off mid-meal. Specialized programs like “Food on the Run” ensure that they will get the nutrition that they need.
Secure Environment
Even though they may be located within the same grounds, memory care communities have more specialized features to ensure the safety of their residents. This can include precautions like door alarms and features like motion-sensor lights.
Get Comprehensive Senior Living Options at Discovery Village At Sugarloaf
Here at Discovery Village At Sugarloaf, all our residents undergo a staff evaluation before being recommended a senior living option. This takes into account the level of support they need, their level of health, any underlying medical conditions, as well as the programs that would best support them in living a fulfilling life. On top of this, placing the decision in the hands of an objective professional can allow for a more comprehensive assessment.
For more information on our senior living options and the differences between the services and environments provided, contact our senior living coordinators today or schedule a tour to visit our beautiful grounds for yourself.
