When To Move From Assisted Living To Memory Care

Ageing comes with a lot of changes. One of the most prominent changes for some seniors is cognitive decline. Conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia require specialised care that goes beyond the scope of traditional assisted living facilities. While assisted living provides support with daily activities, memory care is specifically designed to meet the unique needs of seniors with memory-related problems. But how do you know when to move from assisted living to memory care? Keep reading to understand the signs, factors, and considerations for moving from assisted living to memory care. 

Assisted Living Vs. Memory Care

Before finding out when to move from assisted living to memory care, it’s important to understand the differences between assisted living and memory care.

Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities provide support with daily chores such as bathing, dressing, medication management, and meal preparation. They are designed for seniors who need some assistance but can still maintain a level of independence. These communities often offer social activities, housekeeping services, and access to medical care.

Memory Care: Memory care is dedicatedly designed for seniors with memory-related illnesses like Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Memory care facilities provide 24*7 supervision, structured routines, and specially trained staff. 

Assisted living and memory care living spaces are designed for seniors for their well-being and to offer them the best support possible. However, memory care is more about supporting seniors dealing with cognitive decline.

When To Move From Assisted Living To Memory Care: Signs To Look Out For

Recognising the right time to move from assisted living to memory care can be a little tricky. Here are some signs that indicate it might be time for a transition:

1. Safety Becomes A Concern

One of the most significant indicators is safety. If your loved one begins wandering, forgetting where they are, or engaging in behaviours that put them at risk (such as leaving the stove on or getting lost), memory care may be necessary. Memory care facilities are equipped with secured environments and round-the-clock supervision to ensure safety.

2. Decline Of Cognitive Health

If your loved one shows a visible decline in cognitive condition, i.e., increased confusion, disorientation, or difficulty recognising familiar people, it might be time for expert care. Memory care provides structured routines that help reduce anxiety and confusion.

3. Difficulty Managing Daily Activities

Although assisted living supports daily tasks, seniors with advanced dementia might need more professional care. If your loved one is unable to manage basic activities like eating, dressing, or personal hygiene despite assistance, memory care offers the additional support they need.

4. Behavioural Changes

Aggression, agitation, paranoia, or extreme mood swings are common in seniors with dementia as their condition progresses. These behaviours can be difficult for staff in assisted living facilities to manage effectively. Memory care staff are experts who are trained to handle these challenges with patience and expertise.

5. Decline in Physical Health

Cognitive decline often impacts physical health as well. If your loved one is experiencing frequent falls, weight loss due to forgetting meals, or neglecting their medical needs despite reminders, memory care is a better option for them.

6. Social Withdrawal

Seniors with memory-related illnesses might withdraw themselves from social activities due to confusion or frustration. Memory care communities offer tailored solutions that would take care of situations like this and have activities that would encourage them to socialise.

Benefits of Moving to Memory Care: What To Expect?

Moving from assisted living to memory care can improve the quality of life for seniors with dementia as well as their families. The emotional and physical toll it takes on people who take care of people with memory-related or age-related problems is often overlooked. People with dementia and similar illnesses require expert care. Memory care facilities are equipped with staff trained in dementia-specific techniques such as redirection and validation therapy to manage challenging behaviours better. 

Memory care homes’ structured and consistent daily schedules reduce anxiety and confusion in them. These facilities also have engaging activities and cognitive stimulation programs like music therapy, art therapy, and sensory activities that enhance mental well-being. Memory care facilities are secured environments that would prevent seniors from wandering, keeping them safe and comfortable. 

How to Make the Transition Easy?

Moving a loved one from assisted living to memory care can be an emotionally draining process for everyone involved. You have to handle it with care, and to make it easier, start conversations early. Approach this conversation with sensitivity in a mindful and appropriate manner, rather than abruptly. Involve them in every step of decision-making, if possible. It is important to visit potential memory care communities together and pick one that gives you a positive and welcoming feeling. 

Give your loved ones time to familiarise themselves with the new environment. You can gradually introduce your loved one to their new surroundings by attending events or spending time there before moving in. To make them feel at home, personalise their space with familiar items like photos, blankets, or decorations. Ultimately, we have to understand that adjusting to a new place and surroundings might take some time for both you and your loved one, and that's why it is important to be patient and understanding during this change. 

The Right Memory Care Facility For Your Loved Ones

Not all memory care communities are created the same, and that's why it is crucial to choose the one that aligns with your loved one’s needs and preferences. Some of the factors to consider before finalising a memory care home are the staff-to-resident ratio, specialised staff training, types of therapies and activities offered, cleanliness and comfort of facilities, and proximity to family members.

Deciding when to move from assisted living to memory care is never easy, but you can find the answer to that question by identifying the signs early. By transitioning at the right time, you can give your loved one a safe space where they feel supported and encouraged.

If you’re considering moving into a retirement home to lead an independent life, Primus Senior Living is one of the best options available right now! Reach out to us today to learn more about Primus Senior Living!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When is the right time for a senior to move from assisted living to memory care?

There is no specific age for seniors to move from an assisted living to a memory care facility. However, if they start showing symptoms like advanced memory loss, confusion, difficulty with daily tasks, wandering off, etc., it might be an indication that they require specialised care and a higher level of support. 

2. What is the difference between assisted living and memory care?

Assisted living facilities offer support with daily chores, meal preparation, etc., while allowing seniors to lead an independent life. On the other hand, memory care is specifically designed for seniors with memory-related problems like dementia or Alzheimer’s, offering them specialised care to manage cognitive decline.

3. Is Primus a memory care facility?

No. Primus is a senior living community that promotes independent living with a proactive healthcare approach. While we don’t specialise in memory care, our personalised support, health monitoring, and cognitive engagement activities help seniors maintain their well-being.