We all want the best quality of life possible for our aging loved ones. But when aging involves memory-related conditions like dementia, there are unique needs that require specific attention. You may have heard of memory care communities and dementia care. So what distinguishes them?
Memory care is essentially a dedicated service within a senior living community. It’s a residential program specifically designed for those living with memory conditions like Alzheimer’s.
Dementia care is generally used as a more encompassing term that includes different types of care for those living with dementia. Services may include at-home care and adult day prog
Memory care residents at Bella Mar at Delray Beach can access spacious apartments, communal activity rooms, assistance with daily living, and our special Moments Matter program.
Memory Care vs. Dementia Care
On the other hand, dementia care is an umbrella term that includes supportive measures for people across all stages of dementia.
According to the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners, memory care involves a structured and secure environment with staff, programs, and activities tailored to those with dementia-related conditions. At communities like Bella Mar at Delray Beach, memory care residents can benefit from professional staff who can support them with daily tasks.
Meanwhile, “dementia care” is generally used as a broader term and includes various types of care. In-home care, and adult day programs belong under this umbrella. The focus of dementia care is to promote a good quality of life by helping individuals with everyday tasks, medication, and social support.
It’s important to remember that dementia itself is not a single disease but a group of symptoms that affect memory, thinking, and reasoning. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, but there are other types including Lewy body dementia, vascular disease, and frontotemporal degeneration. Dementia is not a natural part of getting older.
What Memory Care Looks Like
Memory care communities often aim to establish a secure space that reduces stress. The goal is to promote comfort, social interaction, and an active life, and residents have access to professional staff.
A memory care community typically offers the following benefits:
- Specialized training: Staff have typically undergone specialized training to help them understand and serve those with memory conditions.
- Safety provisions: Because residents may be prone to wander, memory care communities are often fortified with advanced safety features. This can look like secured doors and emergency call systems.
- Routine activities: Having a predictable routine may instill a sense of normalcy and purpose. Memory care communities often provide daily activities designed to engage residents cognitively, socially, and physically.
- Personalized care plans: Each resident is unique, so communities often build a customized care plan for each resident that addresses their needs, preferences, and abilities. These should be routinely revised to accommodate evolving needs.
- Support on demand: Memory care communities often provide 24/7 support, prioritizing the safety and welfare of residents.
What Dementia Care Looks Like
Dementia care can encompass a wide range of services. These include:
- In-home care: This is a popular choice for many families, as it allows a loved one to stay in a comfortable and familiar space. Some in-home services provide non-medical assistance like help with daily tasks. Others offer medical support like physical therapy.
- Day programs: Some places offer day programs for adults with Alzheimer’s. These programs offer social and active opportunities for participants, while also allowing caregivers to take a break.
- Hospice care: For those in the advanced stages of dementia, hospice care is available. The goal of hospice care is to keep loved ones as comfortable as possible. It may involve alleviation of symptoms and emotional counseling as a loved one approaches end-of-life.
Deciding on a Type of Care
Choosing whether to move into a memory care community or pursue other dementia care types is a deeply personal process. The choice you make depends on you or your loved one’s unique situation and requirements.
Having an open and thorough discussion with your healthcare provider to understand individual health needs is definitely a good idea, as is visiting different memory care communities to see what they offer. It’s also important to take into account the development of the disease and future requirements.
Residential communities like Bella Mar at Delray Beach can provide professional supervision and a specially designed environment along with a roster of daily activities. But those in other stages of dementia may opt for a less or more intensive care arrangement, such as in-home care or a day program.
If you’re considering care options, try our quiz to get personalized insights.
Memory Care at Bella Mar at Delray Beach
We believe that folks living with memory challenges deserve dynamic, joyful lives full of activity. Our residents can benefit from offerings like:
- Personalized services: This includes support with daily hygiene, meals, mobility, medication, and dressing.
- Comfortable apartments: Studios, 1-bedroom, and 2-bedroom apartments with kitchenettes are available. Utilities and maintenance services are included.
- Amenities: Residents can enjoy dining, activity rooms for games and crafts, and beautiful outdoor areas.
Furthermore, our Moments Matter program offers additional therapeutic support to memory care residents. To learn more about what we offer, contact us today to book a tour with Bella Mar at Delray Beach.
