What is Memory Care?

Memory is one of the many different types of senior living options that are available for elderly individuals. It is specifically aimed at those suffering from memory-related illnesses and focuses on maintaining independence, quality of life, and dignity. If you are considering different senior living communities, here are a couple of the basics when it comes to memory care.

What is a senior living community?

The term ‘senior living community‘ is an umbrella term for the various types of residential living options available for elderly individuals who can no longer live independently for a variety of options. As you age, you may find it more difficult to perform certain basic daily tasks or may need prompting to help you remember to do them. This is where senior living communities come in. Your physician or adult support worker can assess your level of independence based on factors such as your physical and mental health and how many ADLs or IADLs you can complete alone. Generally, the more support an individual needs with these tasks, the higher the level of care they will need, which will affect the type of senior living community they choose.

Who is memory care for?

Memory care is a type of senior living that is aimed at those with dementia, Alzheimer’s or other memory-related illnesses. It focuses on creating a safe and secure environment in which residents can live and enjoy a range of enriching activities. Services and care are personalized to suit the residents’ requirements, making them feel comfortable and a true part of the community.

Some senior living communities offer only memory care, whilst others offer a combination of different senior living options within one community. According to Brightview, a Bethesda assisted living community, some senior living communities you’re considering may have a waitlist, so it’s important to start researching your options as soon as you think you might be ready.

What are the other options?

Another common option is independent living, in which residents live almost as independently as they have done before, but they live in a resort-like accommodation with care and support available when it is needed. There are often private apartments, sometimes with their own kitchens, to allow residents as much privacy and autonomy as they need in a safe, supportive environment.

Assisted living is for those who need a little extra care and support in their daily lives. Residents often have private rooms, and services like housekeeping and laundry are performed by staff so that you can spend more time doing what you enjoy, such as art or fitness classes. Medical services such as medication management are also offered to help keep residents happy and healthy.

There are several options available for you or your loved ones when the time comes, and it is important to plan and be prepared by doing your research and consulting the experts. Respite care is a short stay at a community, which can help give the caretaker a break whilst letting them and the individual explore their available options.