If you have an elderly relative with memory issues, it might be time to look for a long-term care facility. Now, you might wonder if you should consider a memory care facility or a skilled nursing facility. While both are long-term care options, it is important to understand their differences.
Both memory care and nursing homes offer 24-hour care, patient supervision, and meals. They also both have staff who will help with activities like dressing, bathing, and medication management. However, memory care is for people with memory loss problems or dementia. On the other hand, a nursing home provides care and assistance to seniors with debilitating illnesses.
Memory Care: What It Is and What to Expect?
Memory care facilities specialize in care for adults with dementia and other memory loss-related issues. They offer the same amenities and services as assisted living facilities, but they have secured doors to prevent residents from wandering and hurting themselves.
Aside from basic services, a memory care facility has various services tailored for people with dementia. Hence, they are commonly referred to as dementia care. According to the National Center for Health Statistics:
“About 91% of dementia special care units within residential facilities offer dementia-specific activities, and 90% has doors fitted with alarms to alert staff if anyone is attempting to leave the facility.”
Memory care facilities aim to keep residents engaged while also ensuring their safety. They also have skilled staff to minimize and prevent dementia symptoms such as confusion, hallucinations, sundown syndrome, and more. Residents can engage in programs that will help improve their quality of life. Activities like art and music therapy, sensory stimulation, light therapy, pet therapy, and reminiscence therapy are common.
Skilled Nursing: What It Is and What to Expect?
A skilled nursing facility is where seniors and adults with chronic illnesses or disabilities can receive care 24/7. It is usually considered short-term or temporary care since residents are typically discharged after the rehabilitation is done. Most skilled nursing facilities also offer occupational, physical, and speech therapy services for residents who need them.
However, there are also skilled nursing facilities for long-term care. This is the most expensive option because of the greater need for continual medical care. There is an SNF (skilled nursing facility) care partial coverage under Medicare; it states:
“Medicare-covered services in an SNF include a semi-private room, meals, skilled nursing care, therapies, medical social services, medications, medical supplies, ambulance services, and dietary counseling.”
Tips on Choosing a Facility
Whether you need dementia care or skilled nursing, it is important to choose a facility that suits the needs of your loved ones. First, you should check out the facility’s layout and environment. Are they safe for someone with memory issues? Make sure to find a facility that will not just make your relative comfortable but also keep them engaged.
It is also important to choose a facility with proper staff training and expertise. The staff should be actively engaging and genuinely care for their residents. You should also discuss with the facility the availability of continuing care in case it becomes necessary.
Finally, Grand Brook Memory Care has been supporting families on their memory care journey for over two decades. To speak with one of our compassionate team members or to learn more about our specially designed memory care communities in North Texas, Indiana, Michigan, or Arkansas, please contact us today.
