When it comes to finding care for our loved ones as they age, we want to ensure we make the best decision for their needs. Often, we are faced with the decision of long-term care vs. memory care facilities near Keller, TX. So, what is the difference, and which is right for your loved one? Both types of communities offer a safe and supportive environment, but there are some key differences when deciding.
Type of Care
Memory care centers are specifically designed to meet the needs of people with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other cognitive impairments. These centers provide 24-hour supervision, security, and structured activities and therapies to help residents maintain their cognitive abilities.
Long-term care communities provide a more general level of care for people who need assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and eating. These centers may also offer skilled nursing care for residents with medical needs requiring more frequent or specialized attention.
Cost
Memory care neighborhoods are more expensive than long-term care centers due to their specialized services and around-the-clock supervision. The average monthly cost of a private room in a memory care center is $5,500, while a private room in a long-term care community is $3,500.
Another cost difference is the type of insurance coverage each center accepts. Most memory care communities near Keller, TX, only accept private insurance, while long-term care centers typically accept private and public insurance. This can make a big difference if Medicare or Medicaid covers you or your loved one. It’s important to factor in the center’s location when considering the cost.
Team Members
There are some key team differences between long-term care and memory care neighborhoods. The team provides residents with basic medical and custodial care in a long-term care center. They may also provide some basic assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and eating.
The team in a memory care center is specifically trained to deal with the unique needs of residents with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. They are typically more hands-on than the team in a long-term care center, and they may provide more extensive assistance with activities of daily living. The ratio of team to residents is also usually higher in a memory care center than in a long-term care center.
Safety
Memory care communities near Keller, TX, typically have more team members to provide 24/7 supervision and assistance. This increased staffing can help to prevent falls and other accidents. They also often have more robust security measures, such as locked doors and monitored entryways.
These measures help to protect your loved ones from wandering off and getting lost. On the other hand, long-term care communities are typically more focused on providing a safe environment for your loved ones with physical disabilities or chronic health conditions.
Activities
Another difference between long-term and memory care is the type of activities offered. Long-term care offers a wide variety of activities designed to stimulate both the body and mind. This includes exercise classes, arts and crafts, group outings, and educational seminars. On the other hand, memory care tends to focus more on cognitive activities that help improve or maintain memory function. This can include brain games, reminiscence therapy, or conversation groups.
