For many of us, the prospect of needing memory care is something that’s hard to imagine. But as we age, it’s something that we need to start preparing for. And while there are a lot of misconceptions about memory care costs and what it really means, it’s important to understand what you’re getting into before you jump in. That’s why we created this guide! We’ll explain what memory care is and how much it costs.
What Is Memory Care?
As we age, our brains naturally lose some of their ability to form new memories or recall information from long ago. But this condition doesn’t necessarily mean that a person has dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
Memory care is a type of residential care for people with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. This type of care helps aging family members live with dignity, comfort, and as much independence as possible. It also assists with daily life tasks such as bathing, dressing, and preparing meals so that they can live independently in the community if they choose to do so.
How Can I Recognize The Need For Memory Care?
It’s important to recognize the signs of memory loss so that you can have an honest conversation with your parents about their care options. There are many stages of dementia, and its progression varies from person to person. Some people may experience milder symptoms, while others may have severe issues immediately. It’s also important to note that different types of dementia-related diseases affect different parts of the brain:
The following is a list of some common symptoms:
- Difficulty performing daily tasks like cooking or driving
- Confusion about time or place
- Disorientation in familiar surroundings
- Depression or withdrawal from family and friends
What Is The Cost Of Memory Care?
The cost of memory care services varies by location, size, and amenities. In general, the higher the population density in an area, the greater its demand for memory care services. Therefore, you can expect to pay more if you live in an urban city like New York or San Francisco compared to living in a rural area far away from any major metropolitan area. Additionally, if your loved one has dementia or Alzheimer’s disease (AD), their condition will impact how much they require care as well as their overall health status. The average cost of a private room at an assisted living facility is $3,300 per month; however, this number can be easily exceeded depending on what type of amenities are offered within the community (i.e., activities/socialization programs), whether it’s located close enough to family members so they can often visit — which could reduce transportation costs — and whether there are subsidies available through Medicare or Medicaid programs that would cover some portion.
How Do I Find A Memory Care Community?
To find the right memory care community, start by doing some research. Check out reviews online to see what others have experienced, both good and bad. If you have friends or family members who have used a specific community for their loved one in the past, ask them about their experience with the center and see if it would be a good fit for your loved one as well. You can also contact professionals like doctors or social workers who may be able to recommend some options in your area. And when you’re looking at communities, make sure they offer the services that are important to your needs—many centers offer additional services like nursing care and activities such as music therapy or art classes on top of basic 24/7 caregiving services.
