alzheimer’s, dementia and memory care
Compassionate Care for More Good Days
People diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia require a special kind of care. Memory care at a Benedictine Living Community is designed to provide personalized care organized around the individual’s needs.
In addition, our well-trained memory care teams employ best practices developed through research to provide the compassionate Catholic senior care for which Benedictine is known.
While Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia can make each day a challenge, each of our memory care facilities offers programming and activities to engage residents and promote a sense of purpose, as well as family support that integrates family members into each resident’s plan of care. Together we work toward one objective: more good days.
For more information about memory care at a Benedictine community near you — including direct admission — please visit our locations page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Alzheimer’s disease and dementia?
According to the National Institute on Aging, dementia refers to the loss of cognitive functions — such as thinking, reasoning and the ability to remember — that is severe enough to interfere with a person’s daily functioning. While dementia isn’t a disease, it may accompany certain diseases or conditions, the most common of which is Alzheimer’s.
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive, degenerative brain disease that specifically affects parts of the brain that control thought, memory and language. The National Institutes of Health estimates that more than 5 million people in the United States have Alzheimer’s disease. Although younger people can get Alzheimer’s, symptoms generally begin after age 60.
When is memory care needed?
In most Benedictine Living Communities, memory care can be offered in assisted living or in skilled nursing, depending on the resident’s medical needs. When a person exhibits signs of Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia that affect quality of life or the ability to safely remain in their current living situation, a residential memory care program may be appropriate. For more information, read our blog post, When is Memory Care Needed?
How is memory care different from assisted living?
Every aspect of memory care — from staffing to dining and activities — is designed around the unique needs of people experiencing memory loss. Specially trained professionals work hand in hand with the individual and their family members to create structure, familiar schedules and surroundings, all in a secure environment that promotes a sense of purpose and accomplishment. For more information, read our blog post, Memory Care: A Closer Look.
Is staffing different in memory care?
Yes. Staff members are specially trained to care for people experiencing Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. And these special caregivers carry with them a compassionate temperament and a passion for providing dignified, respectful memory care to individuals and their families. Depending on a resident’s medical needs, memory care may be offered in an assisted living setting. The staffing ratio in assisted living memory care is typically higher than in traditional assisted living.
Are family members and friends welcome to visit?
Family and friends are welcome to visit. Ask about visiting policies when you tour the community.