The terms senior care and memory care are used without much clarification, leaving families confused about the services that would be best for their loved ones. Senior care, also referred to as elder care, is the helpful care that is afforded to seniors who need some extra help with day-to-day activities. This care can be provided in the home, in an assisted living facility, or in a nursing home. Typically, senior care includes assistance with mobility, grooming, bathing, dressing, chores, and some toileting. Memory care is an additional service offered by some senior care providers. Memory care includes 24-hour supervision for the safety of the dementia patient. Memory care includes active redirection, cognitive stimulation, and additional safety measures above and beyond what regular senior care provides. Senior care can be provided as needed and varies based on the person receiving the care, whereas memory care is much more comprehensive and involved.
To clarify, all memory care is senior care, but not all senior care includes memory care. In fact, only 16% of dementia patients received regular cognitive assessments in the medical and long-term care setting. For those seniors who require some support with activities of daily living, home health care, independent living centers, assisted living communities, and nursing homes are the appropriate care settings. However, if your loved one suffers from dementia or cognitive impairment, finding a care plan that emphasizes memory care is essential. Specialized memory care teams have special training, and memory care assisted living facilities, like Serenity Gardens, offer cognitive support and 24-hour supervision for the complete care of dementia patients.
What You Should Know About Memory Care
The Environment
Memory care is specific care for those who suffer from dementia, memory loss, or cognitive deficits. The environment is designed to be secure and reduce the risk of falls, wandering, and other safety issues that are not as big of a concern as other senior living settings. 24-hour care should be provided in a setting that allows maximal freedom for residents to live comfortably without being isolated.
Behavioral Concerns
Unlike other senior care options, memory care focuses a lot on helping with behavioral issues including agitation, poor judgment, and other side effects of memory loss and confusion. Care and interaction should be personalized to the individual and requires caregivers to know their residents and be attentive to cues. Stimulating activities, purposeful and patient interaction, and family education are all vital components to offering peace and serenity to those with memory impairment.
Inclusive Services
Memory care also includes the traditional senior care services available at any other facility including activities, medication assistance, meals, housekeeping, and companionship. The main difference is the attentiveness and modified setting to support those with dementia.
Benefits of Memory Care
When deciding between traditional senior care options including home health care, assisted living, and long-term care options, you’ll discover some of the incredible benefits of memory care that include:
Improved physical safety
Decreased behavioral concerns
Maximal independence
Active engagement
Personalized attention
Encouragement to complete tasks and help with what they can’t
Peace of mind for family members
Comfort for patients
For the comfort and safety that your loved one deserves, discover Serenity Gardens Memory Care Assisted Living centers in Friendswood, Dickinson, and Deer Park. Contact us to schedule a tour today!