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Is Memory Care Considered Long-Term Care?
Date Updated: July 26, 2024
Written by:
Ashlee Shefer is a freelance copywriter, content writer, and digital marketer who specializes in senior care, mental health, health care, and other wellness-related topics. She has one year of experience writing both short- and long-form content related to senior resources, assisted living, nursing homes, and home care, including blog posts, research-based articles, resource guides, product reviews, facility blurbs, finances, and care costs.
Memory care is a type of long-term care tailored to residents with Alzheimer’s or dementia. It can either be provided in a standalone memory care community or a specialized unit or building of a long-term care facility, such as assisted living or a nursing home. People with memory loss require unique services to improve cognitive functions and live safely, and not all long-term care facilities provide this. However, memory care offers specialized programming to alleviate symptoms such as anxiety or confusion, allowing residents to maintain a high quality of life.
What does memory care provide?
Memory care provides a safe environment, with specially trained staff members who understand the complexities of memory loss and who are available for 24-hour care. It offers structured social activities and cognitive therapies to keep your loved one’s mind active and help them build a sense of purpose, boosting their mood and reducing overall decline. Because those with memory loss are prone to wandering, memory care communities also have unique security features to promote safety.
That said, those living in a memory care community still have some autonomy. Residents typically have access to secured social areas, including game rooms or outdoor courtyards, to safely explore and connect with others. Being in this environment can prevent loneliness and encourage an engaging, productive lifestyle.
How do you decide when it’s time for memory care?
It may be time for memory care if your loved one is experiencing confusion or disorientation affecting their physical safety. For example, if they continuously experience dangerous situations at home, including falling or leaving the stove on, living alone may no longer be safe. It’s important to have an open conversation about their condition and potential long-term care options.
If your loved one becomes defensive, denies their condition or outright refuses help, scheduling an evaluation with your loved one’s doctor may be helpful. A doctor can check for signs of memory loss and determine the severity of your loved one’s symptoms. This information can help make an informed decision about whether memory care is necessary.