Mind & Memory
Care

Memory care is a specialized form of long-term care designed for individuals with memory-related disorders such as Alzheimer's disease or dementia. These facilities provide a safe and supportive environment tailored to the unique needs of residents.

Key features of memory care include trained staff who understand the challenges of memory loss and how to provide appropriate care and safety measures, such as secure entrances and exits to prevent wandering, and structured activities to stimulate cognitive function, inclusiveness and maintain well-being.

Memory care facilities offer personalized care plans, tailored activities, and support for families and caregivers. Overall, memory care aims to enhance the quality of life for individuals with memory impairments while providing a supportive and enriching environment.

For those seeking more information on memory care, understanding its specialized approach and benefits can help in making informed decisions about care options for loved ones.

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The average monthly cost for memory care can vary widely depending on factors such as location, facility amenities, level of care needed, and specific services provided. Benchmark Senior Living’s average monthly cost for memory care typically ranges from $4,000 to $8,000 or more.

In some regions, particularly areas with higher costs of living, memory care costs may exceed this range. Additionally, facilities that offer specialized services, luxury amenities, or higher levels of care may have higher fees.

Typical memory care costs cover room and board, meals, assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), medication management, and memory care services. Additional fees may apply for specialized care needs, medication administration, and other services.

Learn more about what’s included in the cost of memory care at our blog. When considering memory care options, it's essential to inquire about the specific services and amenities included in the monthly cost, as well as any additional fees or charges.

Our Financial Concierge services program connects you with third-party services and provides a single point of contact to help with financial questions.*

At Benchmark, we believe in upfront pricing to help inform and ease your decision-making. We are committed to helping you understand exactly what goes into determining initial fees and monthly costs for things like our personalized, needs-based care.

Learn more about the resources that can be used to cover the costs of senior living and get a personalized summary in about 4 minutes without sharing details about your finances with our Affordability Survey.

*Subject to additional fees

For more information on pricing and availability, visit our Memory Care Cost page to request a personalized quote today!

Deciding when to move from assisted living to memory care can be a complex and individualized decision that depends on several factors, including the progression of the individual's cognitive impairment, safety concerns, and the level of support they require. Here are some signs that it may be time to consider a transition from assisted living to memory care:

• Increased Cognitive Decline:

  If the individual's cognitive abilities have significantly declined to the point where they are unable to safely manage activities of daily living (ADL’s), such as bathing, dressing, eating, or taking medication, memory care may be more

• Wandering or Exit-Seeking Behaviors:

  If the individual has started exhibiting wandering behaviors or frequently tries to leave the assisted living facility, a memory care neighborhood with its secured environment may provide a safer living situation.

• Increased Care Needs:

  If the individual requires a higher level of supervision and assistance due to memory loss, confusion, or other cognitive impairments, memory care may be able to offer the additional specialized support they need.

• Safety Concerns:

  If the individual's safety is compromised due to forgetfulness, confusion, or inability to recognize potential dangers, transitioning to a memory care neighborhood with enhanced safety measures may be necessary.

• Social Isolation:

  If the individual is withdrawing from social activities or experiencing social isolation due to cognitive decline, memory care neighborhoods often offer structured activities and programs specifically designed to engage residents with memory impairments.

Ultimately, the decision to move from assisted living to memory care should be made in collaboration with the individual, their family members or loved ones, and healthcare professionals, taking into account the individual's specific needs, preferences, and safety considerations. Regular assessments and discussions with the assisted living staff can help determine when it may be appropriate to consider a transition to memory care.

Wondering if the move from assisted living to memory care is right for you or your loved one? Learn about your options and get personalized results in about 2 minutes with our memory care survey.

Memory care assisted living refers to a specialized type of assisted living facility that provides care and support tailored specifically to individuals with memory impairments, such as Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia. These facilities combine the features of traditional assisted living with additional services and resources designed to meet the unique needs of residents with memory-related disorders.

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Assisted living and memory care are both types of senior living facilities, but they cater to different populations and have distinct differences in terms of the services and support they provide. Here are the key differences between assisted living and memory care:

• Population Served: 

  • Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities typically cater to older adults who may need assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, medication management, and meal preparation. Residents in assisted living may have varying levels of cognitive function, ranging from fully independent to mild cognitive impairment.
  • Memory Care: Memory care facilities are specifically designed for individuals with memory impairments, such as Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia. These facilities specialize in providing care and support tailored to the unique needs of residents with cognitive decline, including those who may be prone to wandering or exhibit challenging behaviors.

• Staff Training and Expertise:

  • Assisted Living: Staff members in assisted living facilities are trained to assist residents with activities of daily living and provide basic medical care, but they may not have specialized training in dementia care.
  • Memory Care: Staff members in memory care facilities receive specialized training in dementia care, including understanding the behaviors associated with memory loss, effective communication techniques, and how to create a supportive and safe environment for residents with cognitive impairments, like Alzheimer’s or dementia.

• Environment:

  • Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities may have a more homelike environment, with private or semi-private apartments or rooms, communal dining areas, and common spaces for socializing and recreational activities.
  • Memory Care: Memory care facilities often have a more structured and secure environment, with features such as monitored or secured entrances and exits to prevent wandering, as well as specialized design elements to reduce confusion and promote independence.

• Programming and Activities:

  • Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer a range of activities and programs designed to promote socialization, physical activity, and mental stimulation. These may include exercise classes, arts and crafts, outings, and social events.
  • Memory Care: Memory care facilities offer programming and activities specifically tailored to the needs and abilities of residents with memory impairments. Activities may focus on reminiscence therapy, sensory stimulation, music therapy, and other interventions designed to engage residents and support cognitive function.

• Level of Care:

  • Assisted Living: Assisted living provides varying levels of care depending on the needs of individual residents, ranging from minimal assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) to more extensive support with medication management and healthcare coordination.
  • Memory Care: Memory care offers a higher level of supervision and support for residents with cognitive impairments, including assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), specialized care for behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), and 24-hour monitoring to ensure safety and well-being.

Overall, while both assisted living and memory care provide senior living support for older adults, memory care facilities offer specialized services and a structured environment specifically designed to meet the unique needs of individuals with memory loss.

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When considering a memory care facility for a loved one, it's essential to understand what services and amenities they typically offer. Here's what you can expect from a memory care facility:

• Safe and Secure Environment:

  Memory care facilities are designed with safety in mind. They often feature secure entrances and exits to prevent wandering, as well as monitored or locked doors to ensure the safety of residents with memory impairments.

• Specialized Staff:

  Memory care facilities have staff members who are specially trained in dementia care. They understand the unique needs of individuals with memory loss and are skilled in providing compassionate and supportive care.

• Personalized Care Plans:

  Each resident in a memory care facility receives an individualized care plan tailored to their specific needs, preferences, and abilities. These care plans may address medication management, assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), behavioral interventions, and more.

• Structured Activities:

  Memory care facilities offer structured activities and programs designed to engage residents and promote cognitive stimulation, social interaction, and emotional well-being. These activities may include music therapy, art therapy, reminiscence therapy, and sensory stimulation exercises.

• Nutritious Meals:

  Memory care facilities typically provide nutritious meals and snacks tailored to the dietary needs and preferences of residents. Specialized diets, such as those for individuals with swallowing difficulties or specific medical conditions, are often accommodated.

• 24-Hour Supervision:

  Memory care facilities provide round-the-clock supervision and support for residents. Staff members are available at all times to assist with any needs or emergencies that may arise.

• Family Involvement:

  Memory care facilities encourage family involvement in the care of their loved ones. Family members are often welcome to participate in activities, visit their loved ones, and attend care plan meetings to stay informed about their care.

• Support Services:

  Memory care facilities may offer additional support services for families, including educational resources, support groups, and counseling to help them navigate the challenges of caring for a loved one with dementia.

• Healthcare Coordination:

  Memory care facilities often have partnerships with healthcare providers and specialists to ensure residents receive comprehensive medical care. They may offer on-site medical services or coordinate transportation for residents' appointments.

• Comfortable Living Spaces:

  Memory care facilities typically provide comfortable and homelike living spaces for residents, including private or semi-private rooms or apartments, communal areas for socializing and activities, and outdoor spaces for relaxation and recreation.

Overall, memory care facilities aim to create a supportive and enriching environment for individuals with memory impairments, helping them to maintain dignity, independence, and quality of life while receiving the care and assistance they need.

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Memory care and dementia care are terms often used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences between the two concepts.

Memory care encompasses a broader range of care services that address the needs of individuals with memory loss, which includes dementia. Memory care can encompass a variety of settings, including in-home care provided by family members or professional caregivers, assisted living facilities that offer memory care services, nursing homes with dementia care units, and standalone dementia care facilities.

Dementia care encompasses a broader range of care services that address not only memory impairment but also other symptoms and challenges associated with dementia, such as changes in behavior, communication difficulties, and functional decline. Benchmark Senior Living’s Memory care program involves a holistic approach to care that considers physical, emotional, and social well-being.

Overall, dementia care is a subset of memory care that specifically focuses on providing specialized care and support for individuals with dementia, aimed at meeting the needs of individuals across various stages of the condition.

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