A dementia diagnosis can change things. It’s a complicated condition, and when a senior loved one starts to showcase signs of cognitive decline, you might be wondering whether or not they can still live in assisted living—and if they need to move to memory care. It’s crucial to learn to recognize the signs that a loved one is dealing with memory impairment; this way, you can help ease the transition to their new home.
If your loved one’s memory impairment is starting to affect their daily life, it’s likely time to move from assisted living to memory care. However, don’t wait for symptoms to develop. If they’re diagnosed with dementia early, a move to memory care may help preserve cognitive abilities in a supportive environment.
The Difference Between Assisted Living & Memory Care
First, it helps to understand the key differences between assisted living and memory care. While both are excellent options for seniors in need, they’re tailored towards different situations. By learning the difference, you can make an informed decision for your loved one.
Assisted Living
Assisted living communities are designed to offer a supportive environment for seniors who value their independence. These communities offer a home where your loved one can enjoy each and every day pursuing their passions while getting help for the daily tasks that give them trouble.
Whether your loved one needs a hand with housekeeping, personal grooming, dressing, or managing their medication, assisted living can help.
However, these communities aren’t designed to support seniors living with cognitive decline. To qualify for assisted living, a senior needs to be physically and cognitively stable. While the community can help with some tasks, they simply don’t have the available on-site resources needed for around-the-clock dementia care—it isn’t what the community is designed to do.
Memory Care
On the other hand, memory care communities are more unique. They’re tailored toward older adults living with conditions like:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Dementia
- Severe memory impairment
- Cognitive decline
These communities offer a secure, structured, and safe environment to help treat cognitive decline. Memory care offers easy access to a team of trained caregivers with a wealth of experience in supporting people living with cognitive decline in an environment that feels just like home.
In memory care, there are additional security features as well designed to keep your loved one safe. There are maps, simple layouts, and even security call features so your loved one can always get help when they’re experiencing a problem.
The emphasis in memory care is on creating a supportive and familiar environment that helps residents maintain a sense of comfort and routine. From structured daily schedules to memory-enhancing activities, every aspect of memory care is designed to enhance your loved one’s quality of life.
Can a Person with Dementia Live in Assisted Living?
Technically, a person with dementia can live in assisted living if they’re not showcasing any severe symptoms. However, while it’s possible, this isn’t recommended.
Remember—assisted living is designed for seniors who are medically stable. The community is set up to offer an environment where residents can remain autonomous and independent. Because of this, they simply aren’t designed to support seniors living with dementia.
If your loved one is showcasing any signs of dementia, memory impairment, or any significant cognitive decline, it isn’t recommended to stay in assisted living. Instead, a move to memory care is recommended; this way, they can get proper support from a community designed to meet their needs.
When to Move to Memory Care
So how can you recognize that it’s time to move a loved one to memory care? Look for the signs that they’re starting to struggle in their everyday life, such as:
- Increased confusion and disorientation
- Wandering or getting lost
- Difficulty managing personal hygiene like bathing and grooming
- Changes in behavior such as agitation or aggressiveness
- Forgetfulness that leads to missed medications or appointments
- Struggling with daily tasks that used to be routine, like cooking or cleaning
Noticing these signs early on can make all the difference.
It’s important to remember that a move to memory care isn’t about finding a new home—it’s about a move to a place that truly understands what they’re going through every day.
Make sure that you don’t wait for things to escalate. If you suspect that your loved one is dealing with cognitive decline, visit a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis. An early move to memory care can make a big difference!
When Is It Time for Memory Care?
When a loved one is diagnosed with dementia, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. With the right support and resources, you can make a real difference and improve your loved one’s quality of life. And our team at Inspired Living at Lakewood Ranch is here to help. Book a tour with us today, and let’s work together to transition your loved one to their new home.
