Memory Care vs. Assisted Living: Understanding the Differences and Benefits

Memory Care vs. Assisted Living: Understanding the Differences and Benefits

Choosing the right care for an elderly loved one is often a deeply emotional decision. Whether someone needs a little extra help to maintain their independence or requires specialized care for memory loss, understanding the available options can provide clarity and peace of mind.

As a LifePlan Community, Meth-Wick offers both assisted living and memory care on one campus, ensuring residents receive the right support as their needs evolve.

What is Assisted Living?

Assisted living is designed for individuals who need some support with daily activities but still want to maintain as much independence as possible. Residents benefit from services such as:

  • Help with personal care such as bathing, dressing, and managing medications
  • Meal preparation and clean up
  • Engaging social activities and wellness programming
  • Housekeeping and laundry

At Meth-Wick, those choosing our assisted living option reside on the fourth floor at The Manor, a space certified by the state for assisted living.

What Is Memory Care?

Memory care is a specialized form of support for individuals living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. While it offers many of the same services as assisted living, it goes further with:

  • A secure, structured environment to promote safety
  • 24/7 supervision by specially trained staff to provide compassionate care
  • Programs tailored to enhance cognitive function and memory
  • Therapeutic activities to promote joy, connection, and comfort

At Meth-Wick, Arbor Place is specifically designed to support residents with memory challenges. Separate cottages allow for small groups of residents to live in a traditional family-style home with common areas for socializing, while also providing a private bedroom and bathroom for each resident.

The smaller group settings and programs support cognitive health within a calming, supportive environment.

The Advantage of a Life Plan Community

One of the many benefits of living in a Life Plan Community like Meth-Wick is the availability of multiple living options on one campus. For many residents, this could mean beginning in assisted living and transitioning to memory care if or when specialized care is needed.

This continuum of care offers:

  • A stress-free move within the same community
  • No need to search for a new care facility, as care needs change
  • The security of knowing consistent, high-quality care is available for every stage of life
  • Staff with specialized training able to recognize changes in cognitive abilities, and suggest recommendations for a change in care

In addition to assisted living and memory care, Meth-Wick also offers independent living, independence plus, skilled nursing, and even short-term rehabilitation and respite care. This breadth of care gives residents and families peace of mind knowing their needs will always be met.

Discover More Resources on Senior Living

For additional information about assisted living, memory care, and Meth-Wick Community’s offerings, explore some of our related blog posts:

Request a Meth-Wick Tour Today

Whether you’ve been thinking about senior care options for a loved one or yourself, we invited you to tour our expansive campus and discover all that Meth-Wick has to offer. Call us today at 319-365-9171 or submit a request online to schedule a personalized tour and see how our Life Plan Community can support your journey.