Find memory care options
Memory care is a type of long-term care community designed to meet the specific needs of individuals with a dementia diagnosis, like Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. Memory care facilities offer 24-hour care and supervision, secured environments, specialized staff trained in dementia care, and memory-enhancing activities and therapies. Memory care can take place in apartment-like facilities, within a wing of an assisted living facility, or in smaller residential care homes. The goal of memory care is to provide an engaging, safe, and therapeutic environment for seniors with dementia to support their well-being and improve their quality of life. Individuals in the middle to later stages of dementia benefit most from a memory care environment.
Because dementia symptoms worsen over time, elderly adults with dementia are often unable to continue to live independently in their homes. If a family member is unable to take on the caregiver role, which can quickly become a full-time job, memory care is a great option. Memory care not only benefits seniors with dementia but also families who are feeling overwhelmed by their loved one’s advanced care needs. It gives families peace of mind that their loved one is in a secure and therapeutic environment with caregivers trained to handle difficult dementia behaviors.
Read on to learn all about memory care benefits, specialized services, costs, and payment options. We also offer free tips on finding and moving to a community in your area.
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As dementia progresses, seniors will likely need assistance with one or more activities of daily living (ADLs), such as eating, bathing, dressing, toileting, incontinence care, and moving about. Memory care staff are trained to provide help with ADLs based on each resident’s abilities.
Memory care facilities have on-site staff around the clock to help ensure that each resident always has access to the care and support they need. Staff members at memory care communities typically have specialized training on how to interact with residents and use reassuring communication strategies that address dementia-related behaviors, such as confusion and agitation. These communities also have a high staff-to-resident ratio, which allows caregivers to better personalize dementia care and build meaningful connections with residents.
Safety is a top priority for residential memory care communities to help prevent common dementia symptoms like wandering. Communities are designed to help residents get around safely and promote independence. Some common safety features include grab bars, transitionless thresholds, secured outdoor courtyards, and color-coded spaces that reduce disorientation and help prevent accidents caused by dangerous wandering. Exterior doors are typically locked and monitored so that no one may leave or enter unnoticed.
Memory care facilities offer specialized activities and therapies to help improve mood, enhance memory, and manage common dementia behaviors. Activities are tailored to residents’ abilities and interests and may include brain exercises, classes, live entertainment, and social events. Supportive therapies may include pet therapy, music therapy, art therapy, aromatherapy, and reminiscence therapy. Some memory care facilities offer on-site rehabilitation services, including physical, speech, and occupational therapy.
Seniors with dementia may have trouble taking their medications correctly due to forgetfulness or confusion. Memory care facilities often help residents manage their medication regimens through reminders and administration, but medication management programs can differ between communities.
Memory care staff follow a personalized care plan that’s crafted based on a resident’s care needs and preferences. Care plans are also regularly evaluated and updated to reflect changing care needs as dementia progresses. Communities often schedule appointments for residents, handle transportation for appointments, and regularly update family members on any changes regarding their loved one.
Memory care communities offer dining programs designed to meet residents’ unique dietary needs and preferences. Some communities serve and prepare meals in ways that promote independence. This can include serving sides and entrées one at a time, preparing meals that are easy to chew and swallow, and offering finger foods for residents who struggle with utensils.
Memory care provides many of the same amenities and services offered in other senior living settings. However, dementia and Alzheimer’s care facilities specialize in meeting the intensive needs of seniors with memory loss. The following articles can help you understand how memory care communities compare to other senior care options.
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The median cost of memory care in the U.S. is $6,690 per month, according to proprietary data gathered by A Place for Mom. Costs vary greatly between communities and depend on factors like location, community amenities, programming, apartment size, and the level of care a senior requires. Pricing models also vary. For instance, some memory care communities may be all-inclusive, while others may use an a la carte approach and charge based on services required by a resident.
Memory care base costs typically cover rent, utilities, meals and snacks, housekeeping, transportation to medical appointments, on-site activities, nonmedical therapies, and shared amenities. However, some amenities — such as in-unit internet service, beauty and barber services, laundry, and pet accommodations — may cost extra.
While many families look to savings to finance senior care, there are other little-known funding sources that can help. The articles below can help you better understand pricing and the options available to help pay for memory care.
Touring communities is one of the best ways to find the most suitable memory care for seniors. A tour can help you see what a typical day would look like for your loved one. You’ll get to look at apartment floor plans, interact with staff members and residents, explore shared amenities, and maybe even try a meal. Some communities even offer virtual memory care tours if an in-person visit isn’t possible.
The following guides cover everything you need to know about finding the right memory care community for a loved one.
Once you’ve narrowed down your memory care options, the next step is to figure out moving details. It’s important to keep your loved one involved in decisions to help them feel a sense of control. However, their memory loss may prevent them from fully understanding the situation. During this process, being patient and realistic is essential. You can use the following conversational and moving tips to make sure the transition is as successful and smooth as possible.
