Understanding the difference between assisted living and memory care

According to the survey of the health and human services, around 70% of people over the age of 65 will need assisted care at some point in their life. Most of the people are left with two fastest-growing types of care for the seniors assisted living and memory care. However, it is important to understand the difference between the two and also consider a few factors before taking a decision.

In case your elders are active but need assistance with their day-to-day activities such as eating, bathing, dressing, etc then they may look at assisted living as an option to lead a comfortable life.

On the other hand, memory care is a type of long-term skilled care that caters to senior citizens having dementia, Alzheimer’s disease or any other type of memory problems. The staff is trained specially to assist elders having impaired cognition or dementia. Memory Care is also known as special care units or SCUs and offer 24-hour supervised care within a floor or a separate wing of a residential facility. Few assisted living homes may offer memory care services along with other facilities.

Another noteworthy point is that assisted living facilities are not regulated federally. However, they need to be licensed by the state in which they are situated. Memory care, on the other hand, is regulated in 23 states by special care unit disclosure laws under which, it is mandatory for providers to disclose the special services offered by them. It is recommended that you research well before deciding to admit your elders in such homes.

Here’s a list of few assisted living homes and assisted living memory care that you can think of as an option.

Assisted living homes in Chattanooga, TN

  • Manorhouse Assisted Living & Memory Care
  • Elmcroft of Hamilton Place
  • Hickory Valley Retirement
  • Elmcroft of Shallowford
  • Summit View Senior Community
  • Alexian Brothers Valley Residence
  • Brookdale Hixon
  • Rose of Sharon Senior Villa

Generally, both assisted living and memory care offer basic facilities such as supervised care, medical monitoring, and help with everyday activities such as dressing, hygiene, and mobility.

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