Skip to content

Assisted Living vs. Memory Care: What’s the Difference?

Assisted Living vs. Memory Care: What’s the Difference?

June 12, 2024

Understanding the different types of care available for seniors, especially those living with dementia, can be challenging. At Symphony Pointe in Elkhorn, we know how important it is to find the right environment for your loved one. Symphony Pointe offers both assisted living and memory care services in Elkhorn, NE, and focus on providing joyful living and expert support for seniors with varying care needs. But what exactly sets memory care apart from assisted living? Let’s explore the differences to help you make the best decision for your loved one.

Assisted Living: A Broader Focus

Assisted living caters to a wider range of senior needs. While it does provide support for daily living activities, it’s not exclusively focused on dementia care. Assisted living at Symphony Pointe offers a higher level of independence for seniors who require some assistance but do not require specialized memory care. Depending on the needs of a specific individual, either assisted living or memory care could be appropriate. To determine which care service is the best fit, our Director of Nursing will perform an assessment that takes individual needs and preferences into account. From there, Symphony Pointe can recommend the best option for you or your loved one. It’s possible that individuals with mild memory loss can live and thrive in an assisted living environment. What’s most important is that the individual is in the safest and best possible environment for them.

Memory Care: A Specific Need

Memory care is a specialized type of senior care tailored specifically for individuals living with various forms of dementia. Symphony Pointe offers an in-house neighborhood called “Woodwinds”, specifically for residents with dementia. Woodwinds residents receive the most comprehensive and compassionate care possible. Our community in Elkhorn offers a homelike environment where residents can feel safe and supported. Memory care is most appropriate for those with a diagnosis of dementia, or in situations where family and friends know that living more independently is not safe. Memory care provides the best and safest environment for those with memory loss due to dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease.

Key Features of Memory Care Services:

When seeking memory care for your loved one, there are a few features you should look for:

Expert Care:

Memory care staff should be specifically trained to provide compassionate assistance at every stage of dementia. Due to the nature of dementia, it is vital that staff members receive ongoing, continuous training on how to assist those living with the disease. In turn, this provides residents with the best care possible. The expert caregivers at Symphony Pointe do receive specialized training, with many of our caregivers becoming Certified Dementia Providers.

A Homelike and Secure Environment: 

In our Woodwinds neighborhood at Symphony Pointe, we balance safety with a welcoming atmosphere. The neighborhood features a beautiful secured courtyard, a variety of cozy living spaces, and a large dining room for enjoying delicious chef-prepared meals as well as participating in activities.

Life-Enriching Opportunities:

Speaking of activities, residents of Symphony Pointe enjoy a variety of group and one-on-one activities, as well as scenic drives on the Symphony Pointe bus and outings in the community at large. Our Tovertafel table is enjoyed by all residents, and provides cognitive stimulation and hands on fun. Allowing residents opportunities to stay active and engaged does wonders for their well-being, and helps them to connect with the world around them. 

Personalized Care Plans: 

Recognizing that dementia affects each person differently, our care is tailored to meet individual needs, ensuring the highest quality of life for each resident. No matter which stage they’re in, or at what rate their disease is progressing, we strive to always meet our residents right where they are. 

Why Choose Symphony Pointe for Dementia Care in Elkhorn, NE?

Our commitment to creating the best memory care experience in Elkhorn is evident. Here’s why many families trust us with their loved ones, and why you should, too:

  1. Community-Oriented Approach

At Symphony Pointe in Elkhorn, we believe in the power of community. Our approach is to create a supportive, inclusive environment where residents feel part of a larger family. This sense of community is crucial for the well-being of individuals with dementia.

  1. Expertise in Dementia Care

Our staff’s specialized training in dementia care ensures that residents receive the best possible support. We stay abreast of the latest advancements in dementia care, applying this knowledge to benefit our residents.

  1. Tailored Activities and Programs

We offer a range of activities designed to engage and stimulate the minds of those living with dementia. From music therapy to cognitive games, our programs cater to the diverse interests and abilities of our residents. No matter what they are interested in or their hobbies are, we offer something for everyone. 

  1. Nutrition and Wellness Focus

Good nutrition is vital for health, particularly for those with dementia. Our culinary options are not only delicious but also cater to the nutritional needs of our residents, promoting overall wellness.

  1. Peaceful and Nurturing Environment

The serene surroundings of our Elkhorn location, including our beautiful and secured courtyard and walking paths provide a calming and nurturing environment. This setting is particularly beneficial for residents with dementia, offering them tranquility and a connection with nature.

  1. Family Involvement and Support

We encourage and facilitate family involvement in the care process. Regular communication, family events, and educational resources ensure that families are well-informed and actively engaged in their loved one’s care.

  1. State-of-the-Art Safety Features

Safety is a top priority at Symphony Pointe. Woodwinds neighborhood is equipped with state-of-the-art safety features, ensuring that residents are secure while maintaining a comfortable and homelike atmosphere.

  1. Convenient Location

Situated in Elkhorn, our community is easily accessible for families living in and around the city. This convenience is crucial for frequent visits and maintaining strong family connections.

9. Ongoing Support and Resources

We provide ongoing support not just for our residents but also for their families. From support groups to educational resources, we ensure that the families of our residents are well-equipped to understand and navigate the journey of dementia care.

By choosing dementia care in Elkhorn, NE, at Symphony Pointe, families can be confident that their loved ones are receiving compassionate, expert care in a setting that values each individual’s dignity and quality of life.

Experience the Difference at Symphony Pointe

Symphony Pointe provides Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care services, in one gorgeous community. A move to Symphony Pointe is wonderful for seniors with varying needs, as we can support a continuum of care, from those who are completely independent to those who require a little more help living their best lives, to those who need more specialized care due to memory loss. Take our Online Virtual Tour or contact us today to learn more and schedule in in-person tour!