What Is Memory Care vs. Assisted Living? Understanding the Difference at The Pointe
The number of family members caring for aging loved ones increased by almost one-third from 2011 to 2022, according to a new study by the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. The same study found that the number of care hours provided for seniors with dementia rose by almost half.
Many families eventually find that keeping their loved one at home is no longer the best option. When you start thinking about choosing senior living, a common question is, "What is memory care vs assisted living?" These two terms are often used interchangeably, but they refer to different senior care levels.
Learn more about assisted living and memory care in Knoxville, and which might be the best option for your situation.
What Is Memory Care vs Assisted Living?
Assisted living and memory care communities provide housing, meals, and help with activities of daily living like dressing and bathing. The main difference is in the level of support residents need.
An assisted living community is a good fit for people who enjoy an independent lifestyle but need help with some activities of daily living. Memory care communities are designed to provide specialized support for people with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. These communities have activities tailored for people with cognitive impairment.
What to Expect in Assisted Living at The Pointe
Assisted living at The Pointe at Lifespring gives residents the support they need to feel confident and independent. Our trained staff provides assistance with activities of daily living based on individual needs. This includes help with medication management.
Residents benefit from weekly housekeeping and linen services, which reduce stress and contribute to a more relaxed environment.
Activities and Social Events
The Pointe offers a variety of activities and social events for our assisted living residents. These activities encourage social engagement and a sense of community. They're a great way to meet people with similar interests.
Weekly options include exercise classes, games, and movies. We offer outings to local shopping, parks, and cultural sites. If you have an interest that isn't on our calendar yet, we welcome suggestions!
What to Expect in Memory Care at The Pointe
Our memory care community at The Pointe uses the SHINE program curriculum. The Alzheimer's Association recognizes SHINE Memory Care for its ability to improve the quality of life for seniors with dementia.
Our professional staff specializes in caring for people with memory issues. They have received training and participate in ongoing education in best practices in memory care.
Memory care at The Pointe is personalized and person-centered. We focus on each resident's strengths, not their limitations. Our staff tailor activities to the abilities of our residents in one-on-one and group formats.
Dining at The Pointe at Lifespring
Assisted living and memory care residents will enjoy our Sensational Dining program. The experienced culinary team ensures residents get the nutrition they need through delicious, homestyle meals they'll enjoy. The menu features seasonal dishes and a variety of other options.
Specialized Dining Services for Memory Care
Meals can be a challenge for people with memory-related conditions. They may think they have already eaten, and a loss of appetite is common. Changes in visual and spatial perception can make eating more difficult.
Residents in memory care at The Pointe at Lifespring benefit from delicious meals that are also nutrient-rich. Our staff encourages residents to actively participate in the dining experience while providing assistance if necessary. We follow a meal routine so residents know what to expect.
We encourage all of our residents, but especially those in SHINE Memory Care, to eat with others. Making meals a social time can promote positive feelings around eating, supporting healthy habits.
Dementia Care vs Assisted Living: Which One to Choose?
Deciding whether to move into an assisted living or dementia care community can be stressful for everyone. Watching for a few key signs can help you decide whether you or your loved one is ready for assisted living or memory support in Knoxville.
Choosing Assisted Living
Assisted living may be a good option for you or your loved one if living alone is becoming more difficult to manage.
Housekeeping and yard maintenance tasks may start to feel overwhelming. Keeping up with strenuous chores can be a challenge and lead to potential injuries. At The Pointe at Lifespring, we handle these tasks so residents can focus on enjoying life.
Cooking healthy meals is another area where older adults start to need support. Dining services at The Pointe ensure you have delicious, nutritious meals without worrying about grocery shopping or preparing food.
Chronic health issues that worsen with age are another reason to consider assisted living. The staff can help with medication management and ensure you stay on track with your health care.
The Pointe at Lifespring gives you the opportunity to socialize and participate in activities with other seniors. Isolation and loneliness can be significant issues for people living alone. Our assisted living community helps you feel connected.
Choosing Memory Care
Memory care is an ideal option for seniors who are in the middle to late stages of dementia. Safety is the main concern, as people may start to wander and get lost or forget they haven't eaten all day.
The SHINE Memory Care community at The Pointe offers a safe and welcoming environment. Our caring staff ensures that residents are supported in their activities of daily living. We provide a full spectrum of care tailored to each resident's needs.
Choosing Senior Living in Knoxville
Now you know the answer to the question, "What is memory care vs assisted living?" The main differences are in the level of care.
Assisted living is a good option for seniors who maintain a level of independence but need some support with activities like dressing or bathing. Alzheimer's care is a good option for people with dementia who need more continuous support. Whichever level of care you or your loved one needs, you'll find it at The Pointe at Lifespring.
The compassionate staff in our assisted living and memory care communities are dedicated to supporting residents and their families. You'll find the right combination of safety, privacy, and community in a scenic and comfortable environment in northeast Knoxville.
Schedule a tour of The Pointe at Lifespring today to experience the difference.