Assisted Living vs. Memory Care: Key Differences
When considering senior living options, many families wonder about the differences between assisted living and memory care — and which one is best for their loved one. As a Life Plan Community, assisted living and memory care services are only available to current independent living residents at Casa de las Campanas, for when they need additional support. However, understanding the unique offerings, benefits and requirements of each can help families make a well-informed decision.
What Is Assisted Living and Who Benefits From It?
Assisted living is designed for seniors who need some level of daily support but still want to maintain their independence. They still have access to all of the Casa’s top-tier amenities, as well as the socially engaging lifestyle. Residents in assisted living may need help with:
- Daily activities such as bathing, dressing and grooming
- Medication management to ensure proper dosages and schedules
- Mobility assistance for getting around safely
- Meal preparation and dining services
- Housekeeping and maintenance
What Is Memory Care and Who Benefits From It?
Memory care is specialized support for seniors with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. Residents in memory care benefit from a safe, structured environment with:
- Trained caregivers skilled in dementia care
- Security features to prevent wandering and confusion
- Therapeutic activities designed to slow cognitive decline
- Personalized care plans based on individual needs
The Differences Between Assisted Living and Memory Care
1. Safety
Safety measures are key in assisted living and memory care. Assisted living provides 24/7 expert nursing care, fall prevention and emergency response systems, but residents can be as independent as possible. In memory care, additional safety protocols include secure entrances and exits to prevent wandering, 24/7 supervision for added protection and specialized layouts to minimize confusion.
2. Staff Training and Care
At Casa de las Campanas, team members in both assisted living and memory care are trained in senior care and safety. However, memory care team members at Casa receive additional specialized training through Heartfelt Connections – A Memory Care program®, based on best practices and the latest in memory care research. Residents with dementia-related conditions benefit from de-escalation techniques for managing behavioral changes; memory-enhancing strategies to encourage daily engagement; and personalized communication approaches for residents with cognitive impairments.
3. Amenities
Both assisted living and memory care residents enjoy Casa de las Campanas’ beautifully designed spaces and services. Memory care residents also benefit from their own shared common areas to reduce confusion and agitation, soothing color schemes and familiar layouts for comfort, and a secure landscaped courtyard for safe outdoor enjoyment.
4. Activities and Therapies
Engagement and socialization are essential in assisted living and memory care. Casa de las Campanas offers group outings and social gatherings for assisted living residents, as well as brain-stimulating exercises, music therapy and art programs for memory care residents. Residents in both levels of care enjoy daily wellness and fitness classes.
5. Costs
At most communities, the cost of assisted living and memory care varies based on individual needs and services. Since memory care requires higher staff-to-resident ratios and specialized support, it typically costs more than assisted living.
However, as a Life Plan Community, access to these levels of care is available for existing Casa de las Campanas residents within a predictable monthly fee, ensuring that those who transition into these levels of care receive continuity and high-quality support without needing to leave the community. Learn more about our Life Plan contract options here.
Assisted Living vs. Memory Care: What Services Are Offered?
At Casa de las Campanas, our Health Center is consistently rated among the top senior health centers in the area. Residents have exclusive access to a full range of health services. Assisted living residents and team members collaborate to develop individualized care plans based on residents’ abilities. Our services include:
- 24-hour nursing supervision
- Medication management and assistance with activities of daily living
- Scheduling doctors’ appointments and laboratory services
- Transportation arrangements
- Social services
- Mail delivery
- And much more
The Palmer Special Care Residence offers memory care residents a secure and supportive homelike environment with access to a range of services, including:
- Personalized care plans to support residents’ unique needs
- 24-hour nursing supervision
- Medication management and assistance with activities of daily living
- Scheduling doctors’ appointments
- Transportation arrangements
- Daily activity program and regular outings
- And much more
Families Also Ask
What Are the Requirements for Assisted Living Staff Versus Memory Care Staff?
Assisted living staff members are trained to assist with daily activities, personal care and health monitoring. Memory care staff receive additional education and certifications in dementia care, behavioral management and cognitive therapies to provide specialized support.
What Are the Criteria for Moving to in Assisted Living as Opposed to Memory Care?
A resident may be suited for assisted living if they:
- Need help with daily tasks but remain socially and cognitively engaged
- Require some medical assistance but can still make decisions independently
- Desire a maintenance-free lifestyle with access to community amenities and activities
A resident may be best suited for memory care if they:
- Experience significant cognitive decline
- Exhibit wandering, confusion or behavioral changes
- Need a secure environment with structured routines
How to Decide Between Assisted Living and Memory Care
Choosing Assisted Living
Assisted living is best for independent seniors who need some support but still enjoy an active lifestyle. It provides:
- Assistance with daily activities while preserving independence
- Access to fitness, social events and dining experiences
- A community-focused atmosphere
Choosing Memory Care
Memory care is ideal for seniors experiencing cognitive decline who require structured care. It offers:
- Secure, dementia-friendly environments
- Specialized therapies to support memory function
- A predictable routine to reduce confusion and anxiety
At Casa de las Campanas, both options provide high-quality care within a welcoming environment, ensuring residents receive the level of support they need.
Explore Senior Living at Casa de las Campanas
Casa de las Campanas offers a retirement lifestyle full of possibilities, from yoga classes to evenings at the theater with friends. Our welcoming community and supportive environment allow you to live your best life every day. Ready to explore? Visit our Contact page for more details.
Featured Image: YAKOBCHUK VIACHESLAV / Shutterstock
