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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Protecting Your Skin at Every Age — Especially Under the Florida Sun

By Donna Nichols • May 4, 2026
May is Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month, an important time to talk about protecting the skin we live in. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and Florida’s year‑round sunshine makes awareness especially important for seniors. Many older adults grew up in a time before sunscreen was widely used, which means decades of sun exposure may increase risk today. Melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, can develop quickly — but when caught early, it is highly treatable. Other types of skin cancer, like basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma, are also common in seniors and often appear on areas that have seen the most sun over the years: the face, ears, neck, arms, and hands. What to look for: Early detection saves lives. Seniors should watch for: • New spots or moles • Changes in size, shape, or color • Spots that itch, bleed, or don’t heal • Anything that looks different from the rest Dermatologists often use the ABCDE rule to help identify concerning changes: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and Evolving over time. Simple ways to protect your skin: • Wear a wide‑brimmed hat and lightweight long sleeves when outdoors • Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapply regularly • Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) • Avoid tanning beds • Schedule regular skin checks with a dermatologist, especially if you’ve had sunburns in the past Skin cancer awareness isn’t about avoiding the outdoors — it’s about enjoying it safely. Sunshine can lift our spirits, support healthy sleep, and encourage movement, but it’s important to protect ourselves along the way. With a few mindful habits and regular check‑ins, seniors can stay active, confident, and sun‑smart all year long.

Staying Active as the Weather Warms

By Donna Nichols • April 17, 2026
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Allergy Season Is Here: What Seniors Should Know

By Donna Nichols • April 2, 2026
April in Florida means sunshine, flowers, and… pollen. Lots of pollen. For many seniors, allergy season can bring sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion, and fatigue — symptoms that can be frustrating but manageable with awareness and simple habits. Here’s what older adults and caregivers should keep in mind as allergy season peaks. 1. Allergies Can Change Ov er Time Even if someone never had allergies before, they can develop later in life. The immune system shifts with age, and new sensitivities can appear. If symptoms show up suddenly each spring, allergies may be the reason. 2. Pollen Counts Are Highest in the Morning For seniors who enjoy morning walks or porch time, this can be a surprise. On high‑pollen days, shifting outdoor time to later in the afternoon can make a big difference. 3. Staying Hydrated Helps Ease Symptoms Water thins mucus, supports the immune system, and helps the body flush irritants. Seniors often drink less than they realize, so gentle reminders — a water bottle nearby, herbal tea, flavored water — can help. 4. Keep the Indoors as Allergen‑Free as Possible A few simple habits go a long way: • Keep windows closed on high‑pollen days • Change air filters regularly • Remove shoes at the door • Shower or change clothes after being outside These small steps help reduce the amount of pollen that sneaks indoors. 5. Pay Attention to New or Worsening Symptoms If allergy symptoms feel different than usual, last longer than expected, or interfere with daily life, it’s a good time to check in with a healthcare provider. Sometimes what looks like allergies can be something else entirely. A Breath of Fresh (and Cleaner) Air Allergies may be part of spring, but they don’t have to steal the joy of the season. With a little awareness and a few simple habits, seniors can stay comfortable, active, and able to enjoy everything April has to offer.