Surely you’ve heard the terms…
Memory Care. Alzheimer’s Care. Dementia Care.
They’re thrown around almost interchangeably. But do they all mean the same thing?
This article will clear up any confusion you have about those terms so you know what each of them means.
Alzheimer’s vs Dementia
The first step here is to understand the difference between these two terms: dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Dementia is more of a general term. Or an umbrella term, if you will. It refers to a syndrome. Which is a set of symptoms. Those symptoms involve impaired thinking and memory loss.
Dementia is not a disease. And there is no definitive diagnosis for it.
Again, it’s just an umbrella term that describes a set of symptoms. Other symptoms of dementia include a loss or degradation of language skills, visual perception, attention span, emotional control, self-management and problem solving.
Some forms of dementia are temporary and the symptoms can be reversed.
Alzheimer’s is a disease. It’s a physical disease that impacts the brain. Over time, the disease leads to the death of nerve cells and the loss of brain tissue.
Alzheimer’s is a common cause of dementia. Actually, it’s the most common cause of dementia. It accounts for over 50% of dementia cases. There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease.
Okay, with that out of the way, let’s move on and answer the question…
What is Memory Care?
Memory care is kind of a blanket term that covers treating those that have dementia and/or Alzheimer’s. Those with dementia require a special kind of care. Care that is not typically offered in a generic assisted living facility.
Memory care facilities typically have more highly trained staff. And they also tend to have expertly crafted activities, resources, food and facilities to provide a comfortable and safe environment for those with dementia.
Alzheimer’s Care and Treatment
As we said, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease – yet. So the care and treatment of those with the disease focusing on managing the symptoms. This can include giving medications to help with memory loss, depression, sleeplessness and other symptoms of Alzheimer’s.
It may also include non-drug treatments. These can include things like art therapy, aromatherapy, physical exercise, reminiscence therapy, social interactions and others.
Dementia Care and Treatment
Unlike Alzheimer’s, some forms of dementia are treatable. So finding the right medication can help significantly with symptoms. Which medication is used will depend on the cause of the dementia. Some causes of dementia that respond to treatment include: drugs, tumors, hypoglycemia and metabolic disorders.
Non-drug supportive services can also help those with dementia. Getting assistance from a home-health aid or even living in a nursing home or assisted living facility may be okay for those with some forms of dementia. If the symptoms get too bad, however, a facility dedicated to providing memory care services may be a better option.
Memory Care Facilities
If a loved one is suffering from dementia or Alzheimer’s, memory care facilities provide the highest level of care available. If you’d like to find a memory care facility near you, please search our listings here…
