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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The Heart of Guidance: The Role of a Senior Advisor in Elder Care

By Donna Nichols • September 5, 2025
In a world that often moves too fast, senior advisors offer something rare and essential: time, understanding, and a steady hand. Unlike their counterparts in the business world, senior advisors in elder care aren’t focused on profit margins—they’re focused on people. Who They Are Senior advisors in this space are often seasoned professionals, caregivers, or community advocates who help older adults and their families navigate complex decisions. They may work in senior living communities, nonprofit organizations, healthcare systems, or independently. What They Do • Guide families through transitions: Whether it's choosing assisted living or downsizing a home, senior advisors help make sense of it all. • Advocate for dignity and autonomy: They ensure that older adults’ voices are heard and respected in every decision. • Connect to resources: From transportation and wellness programs to Alzheimer’s and grief support, they know where to turn. • Offer emotional support: Sometimes, the most valuable thing they offer is a listening ear and a calming presence. Why It Matters A senior advisor isn’t just a resource—they’re a lifeline. They help families breathe easier, empower older adults to make informed choices, and bring compassion into moments that can feel overwhelming. If you’re reading this and thinking, “That sounds like me,” you’re not alone. Many of us play this role informally, answering questions, calming nerves, and connecting dots. Whether you’re a professional advisor or a trusted neighbor, your presence makes a difference.  If you or someone you love is facing a big decision and could use a calm, caring guide—we’re here. No pressure, no jargon, just real people ready to help. Call us today on 386-847-2322 to start the conversation. Sometimes, the first step is simply knowing you’re not alone.

Grandparents Day: A Celebration of Heart, Humor & Heritage

By Donna Nichols • September 4, 2025
September brings a quiet kind of magic—the golden light, the hint of fall in the air, and a moment to honor the everyday heroes who’ve shaped our lives with love, laughter, and legendary stories: our grandparents. Whether you’re a grandparent yourself, a grateful grandchild, or someone who’s been “adopted” by a wise elder in your life, Grandparents Day is a chance to pause and celebrate the beautiful bridge between generations. What Makes Grandparents So Grand? • They’re walking history books—with tales of jukeboxes, moon landings, and the original recipe for Sunday gravy. • They’re master cheerleaders, showing up with hugs, cookies, and the kind of encouragement that sticks for life. • They’re wisdom whisperers, offering advice that somehow makes more sense with each passing year. And let’s be honest: they also have the uncanny ability to make you feel like the most important person in the room. A Legacy of Love Grandparents teach us that love doesn’t have to be loud to be lasting. It’s in the quiet gestures: the handwritten birthday card, the saved newspaper clipping, the way they remember your favorite snack or ask about that thing you mentioned weeks ago. They remind us that resilience is built over time—through hard work, humor, and a whole lot of heart. Their stories carry lessons we didn’t know we needed until we suddenly find ourselves living them. And for those who’ve lost a grandparent, this day can be bittersweet. But it’s also a chance to honor their memory—by sharing their stories, cooking their favorite dish, or simply whispering a thank-you into the September breeze. Celebrate with Us: A Little Fun for the Big Day This Grandparents Day, we invite you to: • Share a memory: What’s one moment with a grandparent that still makes you smile? • Send a shoutout: Post a photo or quote from your favorite grandparent on social media and tag us.

Honoring Our Elders: National Senior Citizens Day

By Donna Nichols • August 14, 2025
On August 21, we pause to celebrate the heartbeat of our communities—our senior citizens. This day isn’t just about marking a date on the calendar. It’s about recognizing the wisdom, resilience, and warmth that older adults bring to every conversation, every gathering, and every generation. Wisdom That Lights the Way From stories of first jobs and family traditions to lessons learned through love and loss, seniors carry a lifetime of insight. Their experiences are more than memories—they’re guideposts for those still finding their way. Today, we honor those stories and the voices behind them. Connection That Matters Whether it’s a neighborly wave, a shared recipe, or a quiet moment on the porch, seniors remind us that connection doesn’t need fanfare—it just needs heart. National Senior Citizens Day is a chance to say, “We see you. We value you. We’re better because of you.” Ways to Celebrate Host a storytelling circle or memory-sharing event Share a favorite photo and the story behind it Create a “Senior Spotlight” wall with quotes and wisdom Invite younger generations to learn a skill from a senior (gardening, baking, crafting) Spend time—listen, laugh, and learn A Day of Gratitude Let’s make August 21 a day of genuine appreciation. Whether you’re a senior yourself or someone lucky enough to know and love one, take a moment to reflect on the richness they bring to our lives. Their legacy is living, breathing, and beautifully unfolding every day.  This is a day to be celebrated every day! Senior citizens bring so much fulfillment to our lives, and we need to embrace the moments we spend with them, for they are precious.