Memory Care vs. Assisted Living in Des Moines, IA: Key Differences Explained
If you have been diagnosed with memory issues, you are far from alone. According to the State of Iowa Human & Health Services, more than 66,000 Iowans aged 65 and over have Alzheimer's disease.
However, many more seniors in the Des Moines community do not have memory problems. If you are one of them, you may be overwhelmed by the number of senior living options available. If you are a couple and only one of you is facing memory challenges, you may face a dilemma when choosing the right type of elderly care services.
In this post, we'll examine memory care vs assisted living. Our goal is to help you make the right choice so you get the support you need to get the best out of your senior years.
What Is Assisted Living?
Assisted living communities are designed for seniors who value their independence but need a little extra support. Some of the key assisted living benefits many seniors appreciate include:
- No yard work to do
- Housekeeping services
- On-site restaurant catering to dietary requirements
- Activities and socialization opportunities
- Private apartments to call home
- Transportation services
- Support on hand 24/7
Support in Assisted Living Communities
Assisted living communities provide a range of elderly care services that help people retain as much independence as possible. These can include one or more of the following activities of daily living:
- Using the bathroom
- Getting in and out of bed
- Walking
- Bathing, grooming, and dressing
However, assisted living communities do not provide nursing care. The staff on site are trained to provide the support mentioned above but are not medically qualified. However, they are typically located close to medical centers.
Assisted living communities also arrange regular visits from doctors and other medical professionals. This ensures that seniors stay as healthy as they can and that medical conditions are identified and treated as early as possible. It is important to note that assisted living staff do not have specialized training for assisting seniors with dementia.
Is Assisted Living Suitable For Seniors With Memory Difficulties?
Every person with a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or another memory difficulty is unique. The Mayo Clinic acknowledges that the rate of progression for people with Alzheimer's disease varies widely. It can last more than a decade or progress very rapidly in others.
As Alzheimer's disease is a progressive condition that generally worsens over several years, assisted living may be an option in the early stages. For example, you or your loved one may just need a little assistance with a few activities, such as:
- Medication management
- Eating on schedule
- Going to the bathroom
The staff in assisted living communities can provide this level of care. So, when weighing up memory care vs assisted living, you may choose the latter in the early stages. However, as the disease progresses and the person's needs increase, specialist dementia care facilities will be the right choice.
Understanding Memory Care
Memory support communities, also called memory care or dementia care facilities, are safe havens for seniors who have been diagnosed with a memory condition. Care revolves around a personalized care plan. Each resident is provided with tailored care that meets their needs.
The care plan is updated as their condition progresses to reflect their increased needs. A team of well-trained professional caregivers provides care. They have the skills and qualities needed to help seniors with dementia get the best out of life.
Some senior living options in Des Moines, IA combine assisted living and memory care communities on one site. Therefore, it may be possible to transition from one to the other without the upheaval of moving to a new community.
24/7 Security
Security is extremely important for seniors with memory conditions and their families. The Alzheimer's Association highlights that as the condition progresses, people may find it hard to retrace their steps and get lost easily. That's why memory support communities have extra security to help seniors avoid wandering and stay safe.
With secure doors and 24/7 security, you can feel reassured that your loved one is safe. They will not be exposed to the dangers of wandering in the wider community.
Memory Care Activities
In memory support communities, daily activities are carefully planned to be stimulating and enjoyable. This includes opportunities to fill cultural, spiritual, emotional, and intellectual needs.
Some options may include:
- Pet therapy
- Memory games
- Excursions to local attractions
- Music therapy
These activities help keep seniors with memory challenges active and intellectually stimulated. They make life more enjoyable, promote wellness, and encourage socialization.
Personalized Spaces
Everyone needs a haven to retreat to at the end of the day. Residents in dementia care facilities are encouraged to make their apartments cozy and personal. They can bring furniture and decorations from home to make it feel familiar and comforting.
Decision Time: Memory Care vs Assisted Living
If you do not have a diagnosis of a memory condition but need some extra support, an assisted living community is the right choice for you. It may also be the best choice if you have been diagnosed with a memory condition but are still in the early stages.
However, if you are facing significant memory issues, the tailored care of a memory care community is the best choice. You can feel confident knowing you are in a safe environment as your needs increase. The staff are trained to provide what you need to enjoy life with memory difficulties.
Why Choose Addington Place of Des Moines?
At Addington Place of Des Moines, we make the memory care vs assisted living choice easy. We have both communities on-site. So whatever your needs now, or in the future, we have the accommodation and amenities you need to age in comfort and safety.
In both aspects of our community, our staff is trained to provide the highest levels of care. We pride ourselves on helping seniors thrive and live their best lives. Our activities calendar is a highlight for many, with something fun to do every day.
Why not see for yourself why Addington Place of Des Moines is the ideal choice? Schedule a free tour today!