Memory Care vs. Dementia Care

If a loved one is showing early signs of memory difficulties or dementia, it can become a stressful situation. This may start with them asking the same questions repeatedly, forgetting everyday words in conversation or taking longer to complete everyday tasks.

Choosing the best care for your loved one can be difficult. You may be aware of two types of care for seniors in this situation — memory care and dementia care. In this article, you will learn how these differ from each other, how much they are likely to cost and who they are best suited for. As an introduction, here is a brief description of the two types of care.

Memory Care

When caring for a senior with memory problems caused by dementia or Alzheimer’s, it may come to the point where you can no longer provide care at home. At this point, memory care is an ideal option. Many assisted living facilities provide memory care as an add-on, and there are also dedicated memory care centers.

Memory care communities typically cost about 25% more than assisted living facilities since they offer a higher level of support. Nationally, seniors pay an average of $5,625 per month for memory care according to calculations from data provided by the Genworth Cost of Care Survey.

Memory care offers a structured, secure environment for seniors with memory issues. Specially trained staff provide set routines designed to reduce stress for those with Alzheimer’s or dementia. They also know how to support seniors who often feel frustrated or anxious, or those who may become aggressive or have difficulties communicating. Community staff will prepare meals for the residents and organize activities for them to keep their minds active and support their cognitive abilities. They also make sure community members stay engaged with activities and daily care, such as bathing and eating.

As seniors with memory difficulties are often prone to wandering, security is maintained at a higher level. In some cases, elevators may require a code to use, doors have alarms and outdoor areas are often enclosed to keep residents secure. There will also be an increased ratio of staff to residents to keep an eye on seniors. 

Dementia Care

As dementia progresses, your loved one’s symptoms may worsen and a memory care facility may no longer be able to provide for all their needs. The progression of these symptoms can be slowed by memory care, but they may result in the eventual need for clinical dementia care.

Dementia care is a more involved form of memory care. If your loved one has reached the stage where they need 24-hour medical care that their memory care facility can no longer provide, dementia care is something you will need to consider. Dementia care facilities will have increased staff support in an environment more similar to a nursing home. Additional services may include extra help with daily activities, more one-on-one therapies and more advanced security features.

Dementia care shares memory care’s average national cost of $5,625 per month. However, there may be additional fees to account for additional services.

Frequently Asked Questions