fbpx

Memory Care Versus Nursing Homes: What’s the Difference?

Monday, April 18, 2022

When it comes to memory care communities and nursing homes, the differences can be drastic, especially for those living with dementia, but they do share some similarities. Discover some of the many ways they can similarly support seniors, as well as why one care option may be the best choice for your family.

 

Similarities of Memory Care Versus Nursing Homes

Some people may believe the support they receive in memory care and a nursing home are essentially the same. While it’s true that they both offer 24-hour support and dedicated care by an expert team, there are larger differences to explore. Nursing homes are focused on providing individualized care that improves health outcomes, maintains dignity and provides comfort. Memory care communities have the same goal – but with the added element of tailoring care and lifestyle specifically for the unique needs of those with memory loss.

Enriching Activities

Often, there are a range of programs for residents to enjoy that provide opportunities to socialize and engage in activities in both nursing homes and memory care communities. However, memory care communities typically deliver a more robust lifestyle experience that is designed to create enriching, purposeful moments in daily life.

Peace of Mind

One of the biggest similarities between these two care options is that they provide residents, as well as their families, with peace of mind in knowing that their loved one is receiving the support they need from an expert team, along with three healthy meals a day and programs that promote wellness and activity in daily life.

 

So, What Are the Differences That Set Them Apart?

As you can see, there are many similarities between memory care communities and nursing homes; however, the differences can be truly significant and often make all the difference in the level of care and support provided to a loved one with memory loss. Discover why those dealing with memory loss may ultimately choose the specialized care of a memory care residence such as a Bridges® by EPOCH community.

Exclusively Created to Support Memory Loss

Whether loved ones are in the early stages of needing memory care services or they are in the later stages of Alzheimer’s disease and need more support, those with cognitive impairments living with a purposefully designed memory care assisted living community have the peace of mind of a trusted environment and an expert dementia care team available whenever needed. Dedicated memory care communities are exactly that – created exclusively to care for the unique needs of those with Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias.

Skilled nursing facilities, as well as standard assisted living facilities, often do not have the resources dedicated specifically to care for memory loss.

Teams Are Trained Specifically in Memory Care

While both care options provide support with activities of daily living, memory care communities provide specialized care plans designed to manage challenging dementia symptoms. From agitation and aggression to wandering and more, teams are trained on a range of techniques to effectively address these behaviors without the use of medications.

Instead of focusing on validation, reminiscence and holistic therapies, nursing homes may solely focus on skilled care to manage chronic health conditions.

Memory Care Communities are Purposefully Designed

Family members experience peace of mind knowing that memory care communities are purposefully designed with safety measures and helpful features from the very start. These thoughtful designs help residents maintain independence and autonomy while breaking away from the institutional feeling that nursing homes tend to have. Instead, stand-alone memory care communities usually feature a residential design that feels just like home.

Dining Goes Beyond the Basics

Dining is often a big deal in senior living, but within memory care communities like Bridges® by EPOCH, we take it one step further. Memory care communities offer chef-prepared dining that isn’t just fresh and seasonal, they cater their meals to special dietary requests and abilities – something nursing homes may not have the ability or resources to take into consideration.

Life-Enrichment Opportunities Crafted for Residents

Although both memory care and skilled nursing homes offer activities, memory care communities provide dedicated life enrichment team members who specially create daily programs and events designed for those with memory loss. They spend time getting to know their likes and dislikes, learn their preferences and tailor activities to certain situations to allow for success and enhanced self-esteem. Nursing home events are typically more limited in terms of activities and may not be easy for those with memory loss to participate in.

 

Enhancing Quality of Life

Bridges® by EPOCH memory care communities have been developed from the ground up to anticipate, meet and exceed the needs of our residents and their families. Our team of remarkable people, the exceptional care and services we offer, and the purposeful design of our buildings all combine to create the most rewarding, secure and nurturing lifestyle possible for our residents.

We understand the concern families feel about ensuring quality of life for loved ones. That’s why, at Bridges® by EPOCH, we offer a wellness centered lifestyle that focuses on reinforcing individual strengths, so residents enjoy heightened confidence and self-esteem. Ultimately, we provide everything residents need to thrive and rediscover a life with purpose.

Bridges® communities are located in Connecticut, Massachusetts and New Hampshire, in the following towns: Norwalk, CT; Stamford, CT; Trumbull, CT; Andover, MA; Hingham, MA; Lexington, MA; Mashpee, MA; Pembroke, MA; Sudbury, MA; Westford, MA; Westwood, MA; and Nashua, NH.

Bridges® by EPOCH is New England’s largest stand-alone memory care assisted living provider.

Learn More About Bridges®

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Loading...