The Difference between Assisted Living and Memory Support

At Bayview, we specialize in Memory Support by taking a Memory Support First approach. The basic difference between assisted living and memory support communities is that memory support offers attention to a specific need that not all seniors may have.

Both assisted living communities and memory support communities provide the basics of care for seniors, like medication management assistance, help with daily tasks, an engaging environment, etc. However, memory support communities offer some key differences in care.

See our table below for a comparison of the two.

Assisted Living

Memory Care
Target Residents
 Seniors that can no longer able to live on their own. A care plan is priced out according scheduled level of services required. Additional services will be billed separately.   Seniors with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or other types of memory problems. These seniors require 24-hour care as they often get confused or struggling more with day-to-day tasks.  
Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
 Assistance with basic tasks such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and mobility Increased assistance due to cognitive decline to ensure safety 
Medication Management
 Support in managing and organizing medications, reminders for dosage More hands-on assistance with medication administration, supervision to ensure proper intake
Social Activities
 Opportunities for social engagement, group activities, and outings Tailored activities to stimulate memory, reduce agitation, and provide a structured routine
Meal Preparation
 Assistance with meal planning, preparation, and dining Supervision to ensure proper nutrition, adapted diets for individuals with swallowing issues
Cognitive Stimulation
 Limited cognitive support, if needed Specialized programs targeting cognitive decline, memory exercises, sensory stimulation (like music therapy or memory games).
Environment
 More independent living settings Structured and secure environment to reduce wandering and confusion
Caregiver Ratio
 Lower caregiver-to-resident ratio Higher caregiver-to-resident ratio to provide more personalized attention
Staff Training
 Basic training for general care needs Specialized training in dementia care, understanding behavioural challenges
Health Monitoring
 Regular health check-ups and monitoring Continuous monitoring of health, including frequent assessments of cognitive function

It’s important to note that the specific needs of individuals may vary, and these are generalizations.

Both memory support and assisted living communities have different advantages, making them ideal for different seniors. Consider your loved one’s needs carefully and choose the community option that you think is the best fit for them.

Memory Support Amenities

While we touched briefly on the specialized memory therapy your loved one will receive in a memory support senior community, it isn’t all work and exercise. These communities offer the same amenities and activities that other senior living communities offer, all in a safe, secure environment for seniors with memory challenges.

Relief for Family.
Structure for your Loved One.

Alzheimer’s and dementia can be challenging for both seniors and their families. Memory support communities provide a structured environment that helps reduce confusion, keeping seniors active and engaged in familiar routines. This structure offers comfort and routine, which can be difficult for families to manage alone amid other responsibilities.

Safety, Security and Peace of Mind.

Memory support communities offer a secure, structured environment for seniors with memory challenges. With secure doors, windows, and staff at key points, these communities prevent wandering and help guide residents safely. Families can feel at ease knowing their loved ones are in caring, watchful hands.

Fun, Socialization and Engagement

Communities offer fun and socialization, which can be a challenge for seniors who live alone or no longer drive. Activities like gardening or book clubs, pet visits, concerts, outings, courtyard barbecues, and more are great ways to keep seniors active and entertained. Your loved one will have more fun than ever in the safest environment possible.