Sometimes, we all need a little bit of help. As we age, some daily tasks might get in the way of a person’s quality of life. When this happens, it’s time to consider senior living, like assisted living or memory care. But what is the difference between them?
Assisted living puts a strong focus on remaining independent. Your loved one will have support with the daily activities while remaining autonomous and in control of their lives.
Memory care caters to older adults with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and other cognitive impairments to help them maintain their dignity and a higher quality of life.
What Is Assisted Living?
When a loved one wants to hold onto their independence but needs a helping hand with daily activities, assisted living at Meadowcrest at Middletown can help. Our community offers a vibrant and supportive environment to empower our residents while providing the assistance they need to thrive.
Our assisted living lifestyle provides a wide range of services to support daily tasks like:
- Walking
- Eating
- Bathing
- Dressing
- Personal grooming
- Medication management
Whether they want a hand with housekeeping, managing nutrition, or bathing themselves, assisted living offers a way for your loved one to maintain autonomy and independence without sacrificing their needs or wants.
With 24/7 access to medical care and a supportive community, your loved one will spend less time worrying about the day-to-day stressors of life and more focusing on moments that matter.
Signs That a Loved One Needs Assisted Living
Some key indicators that your loved one may benefit from assisted living include:
- Difficulty with activities of daily living, such as grooming and eating
- Signs of malnutrition, dehydration, or neglect of personal care
- The inability to safely manage household tasks or medications
- Frequent falls or accidents at home
- A decline in personal hygiene standards
- Loneliness or severe isolation due to the inability to drive or socialize
If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to consider recommending assisted living.
What Is Memory Care?
Memory care is a specialized lifestyle option for those with memory-related conditions. These communities offer a secure environment and specially trained staff who know how to handle the unique challenges of these conditions.
Memory care aims to provide a safe and supportive environment that promotes independence and quality of life.
Your loved one in memory care will have access to:
- A safe and secure environment
- Physical, occupational, and speech therapies
- Specialized programs designed to promote mental engagement and support
- Educational support for family members of residents
At Meadowcrest at Middletown, we believe every resident deserves a place to feel safe, loved, and at home. Our Compass Memory Care program is comprehensively designed for those with Alzheimer’s and dementia, and our beautiful community offers a secure and supportive environment with the specific care and attention needed to address the unique challenges of these conditions. Some unique aspects of our community:
- Family-style dining with an open kitchen to encourage socialization and participation
- A comfortable and familiar home-like setting
- Beautifully landscaped grounds with serene gardens and walking areas in a secure outdoor space
- An inviting lounge for socializing and visiting with family and friends
We are positioned to help your loved one be themselves. We believe in preserving dignity and offering support in every way.
Signs That a Loved One Needs Memory Care
Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are progressive conditions, and early detection is crucial. The sooner you intervene, the sooner your loved one can get the professional support and care they need.
Here are some questions that can help determine if your loved one needs memory care:
- Is your loved one with dementia becoming unsafe in their current home?
- Is their health or your health as a caregiver at risk?
- Are your loved one’s care needs beyond your physical abilities?
- Are you becoming a stressed, irritable, or impatient caregiver?
- Are you neglecting work responsibilities, your family, and your own needs?
- Would the structure and social interaction benefit your loved one with dementia?
How to Choose Between Memory Care & Assisted Living
So, how do you decide which type of senior living would benefit your loved one? Begin by assessing your loved one’s capabilities and needs. This way, you can narrow down your options.
Begin by thoroughly assessing your loved one’s needs and capabilities. A professional assessment from doctors, geriatric care managers, and social workers can provide valuable insights. And consider your loved one’s physical and cognitive abilities. Do they require assistance with daily activities? Are they experiencing memory impairment or cognitive decline?
Once you better understand your loved one’s needs, research senior living communities in your area. Evaluate their services, staff qualifications, and the overall environment. Review the available safety measures offered by nearby communities.
If your loved one is medically stable, wants to remain independent for as long as possible, and needs some help with daily activities, assisted living may be the perfect solution.
If your loved one is showing signs of dementia or requires round-the-clock medical care, memory care may be more suitable.
Choosing the Right Senior Living Community
For our residents who need a little extra help in their day, we offer both assisted living and memory care at Meadowcrest at Middletown. We’re committed to innovation, wellness, and kindness, making our community a great place to live. Your loved one deserves a community that truly values them. Book a tour to visit our beautiful community today. You can also contact us if you have any questions in the meantime.
