When Should You Move Someone From Assisted Living to Memory Care?

Although there are no set rules, you should generally move someone from assisted living to memory care when they start showing challenging symptoms of dementia and can no longer live safely in a less restrictive care setting. Assisted living offers greater independence and a communal lifestyle, which may be appropriate for an individual with mild cognitive impairments who can still lead a relatively autonomous life. However, specialized memory care communities are usually better care settings for individuals with more advanced dementia.

Additionally, assisted living facilities are private-pay institutions that don’t accept any state funding for room and board, such as Medicaid. An a-la-carte menu of additional services that enhance memory support for a resident in need can begin to add up. In some circumstances, assisted living staff can no longer meet the needs of a person living with progressive memory impairments. Memory care facilities, either stand-alone or within nursing home settings, are a good practical and financial alternative.

An individual’s physician and care team often provide valuable guidance regarding the most appropriate care setting for them. Indeed, before admitting someone, many memory care communities require the individual to have a doctor’s recommendation. However, common signs that indicate someone with dementia should move from assisted living to memory care include:

• Frequent forgetfulness
• Short-term memory impairments
• Repetition in conversations
• Communication concerns, including expressive and receptive aphasia
• Behavioral changes, such as aggression, anxiety or depression
• Difficulties socializing or taking part in activities
• Sleeping problems
• Safety-related concerns, such as wandering, leaving windows unlocked or not switching off cooking appliances
• Erratic actions
• Lack of appetite
• Loss of bodily functions or impaired mobility
• Poor personal hygiene
• Staff unable to adequately care for them

Memory care provides a safe and supportive environment for people with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Communities usually have additional security features, such as secured entrances and exits, enclosed outdoor areas, window alarms and layouts that are easy for residents to navigate. Trained caregivers assist residents with daily activities and the management of challenging symptoms, such as agitation, mood changes, memory loss and inappropriate sexual expression. Staff members usually have training in communication methods and patient-centered techniques.

Communities should offer wellness programming in group and one-on-one formats that stimulate the senses, promote overall wellness and a sense of purpose, support cognitive function and maintain a good quality of life. Common enrichment and therapeutic activities include music, trivia, exercise, storytelling, arts and crafts, brain games and massage. Essentially, memory care facilities typically use research-backed initiatives to provide the best lives possible for anyone experiencing cognitive decline.