Home Care vs. Memory Care: What Are the Differences?

An estimated 40% of seniors will develop some form of memory loss, but only about 1% of that group will develop dementia. Seniors who have severe memory loss (like the level associated with dementia) should receive an extra level of memory care.

If your parent or loved one has severe memory loss, is home care enough? Will typical caregivers be able to provide the services needed by a patient with dementia or Alzheimer’s?

We’re here to explain the differences between home care vs. memory care and how to know when you need one or the other.

Read on to learn everything you need to know to make an informed decision for your loved one’s elderly care.

What Is Home Care?

Many seniors choose to age in place, which is to say that they wish to age at home. With the added help of a home care provider, this is often a viable option.

Home care is a type of service provided by trained caregivers for seniors who are aging in place. Caregivers can assist with activities of daily living such as grooming, cleaning, and meal preparation. The presence of a home caregiver increases the safety and well-being of seniors who are aging in place, especially those who live alone or with an elderly partner.

Other services may include transportation and medication assistance. Typical caregivers cannot offer medical services that registered nurses or doctors can. However, they can help your loved one to take medications and other at-home treatments on time every day.

The Differences Between Home Care vs. Memory Care

What makes memory care different from home care? Why is a typical home care service not enough for a senior in need of memory care?

While some memory care practitioners will make house calls, many memory care facilities are live-in facilities. Either way, memory care practitioners offer specific services that patients with severe memory loss may need.

Severe memory loss is accompanied by a number of symptoms that typical caregivers may not be trained to account for. This can include mental or emotional distress, including anxiety, confusion, and agitation. Memory loss patients also tend to need more supervision to prevent things like wandering or putting themselves in danger.

Memory care practitioners can also offer services and treatments that may slow memory loss. This may include cognitive or sensory therapy, reminiscence therapy, and art therapy. While there is no cure for dementia or Alzheimer’s, these treatments may slow the progression of associated symptoms.

Get Your Loved One the Level of Care They Need

It’s easy to underestimate the differences between home care vs. memory care. For more information, research a thorough memory care guide. If your loved one has moderate to severe memory loss, they may need more than home care.

Health isn’t just about what happens in a doctor’s office. Take a look at our health content for more information that will help you to make the best choices for your health and the health of your loved ones.