A Guide to Memory Care Senior Housing Options

Memory care is a type of senior housing designed for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or other memory-related conditions. These communities provide specialized care, programming, and security features to support residents with memory impairment.

Memory care housing options typically include standalone memory care communities, as well as specialized units within assisted living or skilled nursing facilities. Some communities may also offer a continuum of care, allowing residents to transition between levels of care as their needs change.

Memory care communities typically offer 24-hour supervision and security, assistance with activities of daily living, medication management, and specialized programming and activities designed to support memory and cognitive function. Amenities may include private or shared living spaces, communal dining areas, outdoor spaces, and transportation services.

Choosing the right memory care community involves researching and visiting multiple communities to find the best fit for your loved one’s needs and preferences. Factors to consider may include location, cost, staffing ratios and qualifications, programming and activities, safety features, and the overall “feel” of the community. It can also be helpful to gather feedback from residents and their families and to consult with a healthcare professional or geriatric care manager.

The cost of memory care can vary widely depending on factors such as location, level of care needed, and amenities offered. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the national average cost for a private room in a standalone memory care community is around $8,000 per month. It’s important to consider options for funding memory care, such as long-term care insurance, Medicaid, and veterans benefits.

When touring a memory care community, it can be helpful to ask questions about the community’s staffing ratios and qualifications, training and support for staff working with residents with memory impairment, safety features, programming and activities, and policies for managing challenging behaviors. It can also be helpful to ask for references from current residents and their families and to observe the community’s overall atmosphere and level of engagement among residents and staff.