Assisted Living vs Memory Care

Donna Nichols • January 5, 2022

What are Alzheimer’s/Dementia/Memory Care Communities?

Memory Care communities feature specially trained staff and medical personnel who are there to aid your loved one. All staff must undergo a background check, including fingerprinting.

memory care facilitiesThey must also have certain certifications and the administrator of the community must have more certifications than the staff; all employees must pass a test to deal with the needs of dementia residents.

Ask to see the certification if you’d like to ensure they know what they are doing.

This environment is secure and safe and designed to give your loved one the best quality of life available.

Normally, the floor plans are one level. Most communities have novelties such as textured pictures on the walls, for sight and touch, enclosed courtyards for freedom and security. Semi-private rooms are available and sometimes preferred.

They have activities that are specific to people with Alzheimer’s and Dementia.

What services do memory care facilities provide?

Memory care communities are specialized, they have trained staff that are knowledgeable in dealing with Alzheimer’s and Dementia clients. They help with all aspects of care – dressing, bathing, feeding, activities, redirection, keeping your loved one safe. They have programs to keep them active, offering the best possible quality of life.

How much does memory care cost per month?

Each community is unique. Memory care is specialized – it’s more than a locked door. They range in cost starting at $4000.00/month.

Does insurance pay for memory care facilities?

Medicare does NOT pay for memory care communities!

Most communities, whether independent, assisted, or memory care are private pay, however, there are resources out there to help you with the cost should you qualify.

We found a page full of information for you, just click the link provided here:
https://www.dementiacarecentral.com/memory-care/florida

What questions should I ask my memory care community?

  1. What training/criteria is required for your staff?
  2. Has your staff had a background check?
  3. Are they certified to work with Alzheimer’s and Dementia patients?
  4. How often is their training updated?
  5. What is your staff ratio to residents?
  6. What specialized activities do you provide?
  7. It’s always best to ask local placement companies for recommendations.

What’s the difference between Assisted Living vs Memory Care Communities?

Assisted Living vs Memory Care Communities: What's the Difference?

If you have memory care “issues” you can go to an assisted living community, however, if you start to show signs of cognitive declination, behaviors, and/or wandering, you will need to be moved to a memory care community.

When it comes to choosing the correct memory care community for your unique situation, please don’t go to the internet, call the experts at Assisted Living Made Simple. We really do make it “simple” for you!!!

If you’re looking for other senior living articles and resources then click here.

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By Donna Nichols • February 2, 2026
Small Habits That Make a Big Difference February brings a soft reminder to pause and check in with the most loyal companion we have — our heart. It beats for us without asking, carrying us through decades of joy, loss, laughter, and change. American Heart Month invites us to honor that steady work with simple habits that help us feel stronger, more energized, and more connected. The Power of Small Steps Heart health doesn’t require dramatic resolutions or strict routines. In fact, the most meaningful changes are often the smallest ones — the ones we can weave into our day without feeling overwhelmed. A ten‑minute walk after breakfast. Choosing water before coffee. Stretching your arms and shoulders while waiting for the kettle to boil. Turning on a favorite song and letting your body sway a little. These tiny choices add up. They support circulation, boost mood, and remind us that caring for ourselves is still possible at every age. Movement That Meets You Where You Are Not everyone can take long walks or join a fitness class — and that’s okay. Gentle movement counts. • Marching your feet while seated • Rolling your shoulders to release tension • Standing up and sitting down a few times to strengthen your legs • Reaching toward the ceiling to open your chest Every bit of movement helps the heart do its job with less strain. Food That Loves You Back Heart‑healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated. Think in terms of adding rather than restricting. • Add a handful of berries to breakfast • Add a few colorful vegetables to lunch • Add a sprinkle of nuts or seeds for healthy fats • Add one extra glass of water during the day Small additions feel doable — and they nourish the body in ways you can feel. Connection Is Heart Medicine, Too Loneliness can weigh on the heart just as much as physical strain. February is a wonderful time to reach out. Call a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while. Share a memory with a grandchild. Join a community activity, even if just for an hour. Let someone know you’re thinking of them. Human connection is one of the most powerful heart‑protective habits we have. A Month to Celebrate Your Strength Your heart has carried you through so much — every milestone, every challenge, every moment of joy. This month is not about perfection. It’s about honoring your resilience and choosing one or two small habits that make you feel good. A healthier heart doesn’t happen overnight. It happens in the quiet, steady choices we make each day. And February is the perfect time to begin.

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By Donna Nichols • January 12, 2026
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