FAQs When Considering Memory Care for a Family Member
- Willow C.
- Mar 28
- 4 min read
General Information | Memory Care
What is memory care for seniors, and how does it differ from assisted living? Memory care is a type of senior living for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. It will be smaller, with fewer residents and higher staff ratios than assisted living. It provides structured routines, secure environments, and staff trained in dementia care, while assisted living focuses on general personal care without specialized dementia support.
When is it time to consider memory care for a loved one? Signs include:
Increased confusion and disorientation
Wandering or getting lost
Aggression or behavioral changes
Toileting or showering issues
Non-compliance with needed medications or care
Safety concerns at home
Significant mobility help needed or frequent falls
Fatigue, health issues, or burnout of the primary caregiver
What services are provided in a memory care community?
24/7 supervision and security
Assistance with daily activities (bathing, dressing, eating)
Structured routines to reduce confusion
Medication management
Specialized activities and therapies for cognitive support
How does memory care enhance the quality of life for residents? Memory care provides a secure environment, reduces stress from confusion, and offers social engagement, cognitive stimulation, and trained staff to manage behavioral challenges.
Cost & Financial Considerations
How much does memory care typically cost? The cost varies by location and services but averages $5,000–$7,000 per month, higher than standard assisted living due to specialized care.
Does insurance cover memory care?
Medicare: It does not cover long-term memory care, but may cover short-term skilled nursing or medical care.
Medicaid: This may cover some costs if the facility accepts it.
Long-Term Care Insurance: Often covers memory care.
VA Benefits: May assist eligible veterans.
Are there additional fees beyond the base cost? Some facilities charge extra for medication management, personal care, transportation, or specialized therapies. It’s important to request a detailed pricing breakdown.
Are there financial assistance programs for memory care? Yes, options include Medicaid waivers, VA Aid & Attendance benefits, and state assistance programs.
Choosing the Right Facility
What should I look for when selecting a memory care facility?
Secure, dementia-friendly layout (e.g., color-coded hallways)
Engaged and trained staff
Personalized care plans
Activities designed for cognitive support
Family involvement and support programs
How do I check a facility’s reputation and licensing?
Look up state health department reports
Check online reviews and testimonials
Visit in person and observe staff-resident interactions
What should I ask staff and administrators before choosing a facility?
How are behavioral issues like aggression managed?
What dementia-specific training do staff receive?
What is the staff-to-resident ratio, especially at night?
How often do care plans get updated?
What security measures are in place to prevent wandering?
Secured doors and alarmed exits
Enclosed outdoor spaces
24/7 monitoring
Wearable tracking devices in some facilities
Health & Medical Care
What level of medical care is provided in memory care? Memory care staff provide medication management and personal care but do not offer complete medical services. Some communities have nurses or visiting physicians for medical oversight.
Can my loved one continue seeing their current doctor? Yes, in most cases. Many facilities allow residents to keep their physicians, and some have on-site medical staff.
How do memory care facilities handle medical emergencies?
Staff are trained in emergency response
Residents wear call-alert systems or bracelets
Emergency protocols are in place for hospital transfers
What happens if my loved one’s condition worsens? If medical needs exceed what the facility provides, staff will recommend transferring to a skilled nursing facility or hospice care.
Daily Life & Family Involvement
What types of activities and therapies are available?
Music therapy
Art and reminiscence therapy
Light exercise and movement programs
Sensory activities (e.g., aromatherapy)
Cognitive games and memory exercises
Can family members visit and participate in care? Yes, most facilities encourage visits, and some offer family support groups. Some may have specific visiting hours, while others offer open visitation.
What personal items can my loved one bring? Residents can usually bring familiar furniture, clothing, personal photos, and comfort items to create a home-like environment.
Can a resident move out of memory care if they improve? In rare cases where cognitive symptoms stabilize, transitioning back to assisted living might be possible. However, dementia is a progressive disease, so most residents remain in memory care.
Here at Willow Care
Willow Care is a local women-owned senior-living advisor agency (*sometimes called senior care agents or senior referral companies) providing free assistance in finding the most suitable senior care communities for families in the Eugene/Springfield area. Their services include personalized consultations to understand individual needs and preferences, expert guidance in navigating the senior care landscape, and compassionate support throughout the entire decision-making process.
The process and options can be quite overwhelming, we know this! And the real value we offer goes beyond what you learn when touring facilities on your own. We have been part of these communities and this industry for decades and bring that expertise to help you and your unique situation. We help you understand the differences in quality care between independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing facilities (aka nursing homes), continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), home care, adult day care, and hospice care and what is the best option for you or your loved one.
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