What Is Memory Care Really Like?

Date Updated: July 26, 2024

Written by:

Rachel Lustbader

Rachel Lustbader is a writer and editor with a background in healthcare and technology. Her work has been published on websites including HealthCare.com, BiteSizeBio.com, BetterHelp.com, Caring.com, and PayingforSeniorCare.com. She studied health science and public health at Boston University.

Both of Rachel’s grandmothers had very positive experiences in senior living communities, and Rachel saw firsthand the impact that kind, committed caregivers and community managers can have on seniors’ and their family members’ lives. With her work at Caring, Rachel hopes to help other families find communities, caregivers, and at-home products that benefit elderly loved ones and make life less stressful for family caregivers

A senior who lives in a memory care community can expect to receive 24-hour care and supervision in a calming and homelike environment. Memory care communities are designed to help reduce the confusion and stress many seniors living with dementia experience when in busier environments. More than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, and the Alzheimer’s Society expects that figure to increase over the next few years. Memory care communities help these seniors adapt to their condition and maintain their dignity and well-being.

Caregivers who are trained in dementia care help seniors through a mixture of cueing, prompts and supervision. They encourage seniors to tend to personal care tasks on their own as much as possible and to participate in games, activities and social events that match their needs and abilities.

Seniors Are Helped to Stay Safe and Independent

Memory care communities offer a higher level of care and supervision than assisted living communities. The communities are often secured to prevent confused residents from becoming lost or wandering. The halls and communal spaces are designed to be accessible, uncluttered and safe for all residents. Seniors are encouraged through prompts and gentle cues to tend to personal care tasks, helping prevent the cognitive decline that can sometimes occur when an individual becomes less mobile and independent.

Regular Activities Can Promote Cognitive Well-being

Memory care communities often run reminiscence activities and other special programs of activities designed to help seniors stay mentally sharp. Engaging in regular social activities has been found to help slow cognitive decline, improve memory and boost cognition in older adults. These programs also help seniors feel valued and understood and can help them settle into their new homes more quickly.