What Sets Memory Care Apart From Assisted Living?

Every senior living community is different. Some cater to those who can live alone in Independent Living. Others offer Assisted Living to help people live independently with some support. However, many senior living communities also provide Memory Care.

Are you curious about how Memory Care differs from Assisted Living? You can learn more about this living program below.

It Revolves Around Memory Impairment

Most residents in Memory Care programs have Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of memory loss. As a result, they have access to the amenities, services, and therapies that can help manage memory impairment.

Their living environments are typically more secure. Care associates also work hard to combat wandering, confusion, and behavioral issues. In contrast, seniors in Assisted Living programs tend to have more independence. They can live in their own apartments and receive help with daily activities when they need it. They don’t typically have diagnosed memory impairments.

Care Associates Are Specially Trained

All care associates in senior living communities undergo training to help their residents live rewarding and fulfilling lives. However, those looking after Memory Care residents typically receive more specialized training.

They learn how to communicate with people living with memory loss. They can also manage challenging behaviors and are skilled in various behavioral techniques.

They Enjoy Therapies and Life Skills Activities

All residents in senior living communities can participate in various games, activities, classes, and events that interest them. From arts and crafts to movies and walking groups, there’s truly something for everyone.

Memory Care residents can also enjoy these activities. However, they also enjoy activities focusing on retaining their life skills. For example, they are often encouraged to engage in meaningful tasks that give them independence and purpose.

Living Environments Are More Secure

Most senior living communities are secure, with safety measures to keep residents safe. However, safety is certainly enhanced in Memory Care communal spaces and private apartments. They generally have secure entrances and fenced outdoor areas to prevent wandering.

Private units also tend to differ from those in Assisted Living. While Assisted Living residents enjoy kitchenettes alongside their bedrooms and bathrooms, most Memory Care suites only have bedrooms and safety-equipped bathrooms.

A Lower Caregiver-to-Resident Ratio

Most senior living communities already strive for low caregiver-to-resident ratios. Lower ratios help them meet their residents’ everyday needs. However, the standard ratio for Memory Care residents is typically lower. Most Memory Care residents require more one-on-one care and attention. As a result, care associates usually take care of fewer residents than the average Assisted Living care associate. 

Special Meal Times

Visit any reputable senior living community, and you’ll likely see all residents enjoying delicious and nutritious meals in comfortable dining rooms. However, the best senior living communities create a unique dining environment for Memory Care residents.

As meal times can sometimes be stressful for people with memory loss, care associates strive to make meal times more enjoyable. They often present visual menus to promote independence, turn on soothing lighting, and play calming music. These measures can sometimes equate to a less frustrating dining experience. Many senior living communities also use ingredients that can contribute to brain health, like leafy greens, fish, and whole grains.

Learn More About Memory Care at Lynridge of Waco Assisted Living & Memory Care

Would you like to learn more about Memory Care in senior living communities? Contact Lynridge of Waco Assisted Living & Memory Care today. We can answer your questions, show you around our secure community, and help your loved one get settled into their new, comfortable, and safe home. Schedule a personal tour today.