In-Home Care vs. Memory Care

IN-HOME CARE VS. MEMORY CARE

Are you or a loved one living with memory loss and having trouble managing the day-to-day tasks independently?

Deciding between dementia care at home or a memory care community near you can be difficult.

For memory care in Mobile, Alabama, seniors have the option of the signature Cherish program with Proveer at Heritage Woods. Continue reading to learn more about the differences between dementia support options.

Understanding Memory Care Communities

A memory care community is a specialized living environment designed to address the unique needs of individuals living with memory loss. These communities are staffed with professionals specifically trained to provide personalized care and support for residents experiencing Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia.

At a memory care community in Mobile, AL such as Proveer at Heritage Woods, we offer a range of specialized activities and therapies that help residents maintain cognitive abilities, reduce anxiety and depression, and promote overall well-being. These activities and treatments may include a variety of purposeful programs.

Recall Therapy

This therapy involves engaging residents in activities that evoke memories and experiences. This tool can include storytelling, music, and visual clues. The goal is to promote comfort and familiarity and help residents maintain a sense of identity and self-esteem.

Cognitive Stimulation Therapy

Cognitive stimulation therapy involves various activities and exercises to help residents maintain cognitive skills such as memory, problem-solving, and attention. These activities may include games, puzzles, and other brain teasers.

Physical Exercise and Movement

Physical exercise and movement are essential for maintaining physical and mental health and can help reduce the risk of falls and other injuries. At our community, we offer a range of fitness programs tailored to the individual’s abilities and interests, including yoga, tai chi, and other gentle exercises.

Art, Music, and Pet Therapy

Art therapy involves engaging residents in creative activities such as painting, drawing, and sculpture.

Studies show that dementia tends not to affect the part of the brain that recalls music. Singing and participating in rhythm is an excellent brain stimulator.

Assisted living communities are generally pet-friendly. However, seniors with memory loss may not be able to care for a pet. Animal visits are an excellent source of joy for residents.

These therapies are designed to promote self-expression, reduce anxiety and depression, and improve overall well-being.

Sensory Stimulation

Sensory stimulation involves engaging residents in activities that stimulate the five senses:

• Sight
• Sound
• Smell
• Taste
• Touch

This treatment can include activities such as aromatherapy, hand massage, and tactile activities like pottery or gardening.

Signature Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care in Mobile, Alabama

While in-home care can be a convenient option for some, there are several benefits to choosing a memory care community, like Proveer at Heritage Woods and our signature Cherish memory care program.

Our associates specialize in memory care and are specifically trained to handle the unique challenges of dementia. We provide medication management, and assistance with activities of daily living such as:

• Bathing
• Dressing
• Grooming

Additionally, our community provides a variety of amenities and services that can make life easier and more enjoyable for residents. For instance, each resident is equipped with a personal pendant that they can use to call for assistance whenever needed.

The Dimensions of Wellness

We believe in supporting residents in all dimensions of wellness. We encourage residents to keep moving and pursue knowledge by exploring art and new interests. Residents have the opportunity to give back and use craft time to create gifts for local causes.

Memory care residents can build relationships and live an enriched lifestyle with new friends. Group participation is encouraged, but our dementia care specialists can also create individualized approaches to wellness.

Our Services

Our Cherish Memory Care Program offers a range of services to support the health and well-being of our residents. These services include:

• Certified memory care professionals
• Personalized care plans
• Supervised transportation for appointments
• Housekeeping and home maintenance services
• Chef-prepared meals

In-Home Care versus Memory Care

In-home caregiving can be a convenient choice for individuals who prefer to receive care in the comfort of their own homes. An in-home caregiver provides one-on-one support and assistance to help individuals with everyday tasks and activities.

Home care is often used to give family caregivers respite or for seniors who do not have nearby support.

The duties of an in-home caregiver can vary depending on the individual’s needs and preferences, but they typically include:

• Assisting with bathing, dressing, and grooming
• Preparing meals and assisting with feeding
• Administering medication
• Assisting with mobility, including transferring and positioning
• Housekeeping and laundry services
• Providing transportation to appointments and errands
• Providing companionship and emotional support

One of the biggest benefits of in-home caregiving is receiving personalized care in a familiar environment. A consistent environment can help reduce stress and anxiety and promote feelings of independence and autonomy.

While in-home caregiving can be a great option, it’s important to note that individuals with dementia may thrive on social interaction and physical activity. In-home caregivers can provide some social interaction and assistance with physical activities. However, they may be unable to provide the level and variety of activities offered in a memory care community.

The Cost Comparison Between Dementia Home Care and Memory Care at Proveer at Heritage Woods:

In Mobile, the average cost for in-home care is around $3,813 per month, while the average cost for a memory care community is around $4,404 per month.

It is important to note that memory care residents do not have all of the additional costs of living at home, such as utilities, property taxes, groceries, and transportation.

Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia are progressive. Over time symptoms will worsen, and loved ones will require more care and support to maintain their quality of life.

In the early stages of Alzheimer’s or dementia, memory care may not be necessary. Many individuals with early-stage cognitive impairment can continue to live independently with the support of friends and family members. However, as the condition progresses, it may become more difficult for them to manage daily tasks and activities on their own.

At some point, 24-hour supervision and care will be necessary to ensure the individual’s well-being.

Memory care communities offer an environment where residents can receive round-the-clock care from trained professionals. It’s vital for individuals and families to understand the progressive nature of Alzheimer’s and dementia and to plan accordingly.

While in the early stages, support from family members and home caregivers may be enough, memory care may become necessary.

Consider the Cherish Memory Care Program with Proveer at Heritage Woods for individualized, comprehensive, and cost-effective care. Schedule a tour by calling us at 251-665-9063 and see our Mobile Alzheimer’s and dementia care community in person.