Massachusetts Memory Care Facilities

Most long-term nursing homes fall under national regulation, but Massachusetts dementia care homes are governed by local laws and licensing standards. No matter which state you or your loved one lives in, all locations that offer residential care for elderly people must be properly licensed. Fewer than 25 states have specific memory care home licensing regulations that also must be adhered to. Because nursing home care and memory care have key differences, it is important to choose the right type of facility to meets the needs of your loved one. Senior Living Help is always here to help match you to local homes Alzheimer's care homes in Massachusetts that are properly licensed within your area.

The Difference Between Dementia & Alzheimer’s Disease in Memory Care

Alzheimer's disease and dementia affect seniors in various ways. Every person will have a unique journey that starts with idle forgetfulness that eventually morphs into complete incapacitation. Many families care for their loved ones at home as long as possible, but when the point of 24-hour monitoring is needed, a Massachusetts memory care facility is the best option.

Though both dementia and Alzheimer's disease fall under the banner of memory care, there is a difference in the way residents who suffer from the conditions are cared for. Alzheimer's disease causes a gradual loss of memory, which can include basic motor functions and loss of sense of self. Most Alzheimer's disease patients are docile and are prone to wandering or getting lost. Dementia is also a gradual loss of memory function that can lead to confusion as well as a loss of sense of self. Many dementia patients become angry and even violent as their condition progresses. Communities for dementia care in Massachusetts are equipped to deal with all types of memory conditions and have procedures in place to handle all types of residents.

What Is the Out of Pocket Cost for Memory Care in Massachusetts?

Memory care in a dedicated facility does cost more than memory care at assisted living facilities in Massachusetts. To start, dementia care in Massachusetts needs to have more caregivers on hand to assist the residents than other types of senior living locations. Other aspects that can affect the cost are the level of dementia care needed, the type of room requested and the actual location of the facility. The overall cost for memory care residents who choose to live in a private room and have a high number of extra services can go as high as $12,470 per month. Most residents who choose to reside in a shared room with the standard memory care package can expect to pay around $5,560 per month in Massachusetts, which is over the national average.

What Services Are Available in Massachusetts Alzheimer's Care Communities?

Although the specific services offered in Massachusetts memory care facilities will vary, all memory care homes will provide the same standard services. Monitoring and security, memory-related activities, room and board and help with meals are just a few of the regular services that can be found at memory care homes across the state. Most Massachusetts dementia care homes offer housekeeping and laundry as part of their monthly package, though it may be listed as a separate fee if it is performed by a third party. Memory care facilities are more than just residential holding locations. Caregivers will help each resident with their daily needs and even provide transport to medical appointments as needed.

Is There A Right Time for Alzheimer's Care in Massachusetts?

If your parents or loved ones are living on their own at home or in Massachusetts senior housing as they grow older, you may be concerned about their safety. Older people who are suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or any other memory ailment will eventually require some form of long-term care. Once you have made the decision to move your loved into a Massachusetts dementia care facility, knowing when to do so is your next hurdle.

If your loved one lives on their own, you may be able to care for them for a short time. Even if you are living with your loved one, their memory condition will continue to worsen with time. Eventually, residential memory care will become a necessity. When your loved one has trouble remembering the purpose of their errands when they go out, or when they often lose their way home, it may be time to think about your options. If you notice that your loved one, spouse, or parent tends to become angry or agitated at a certain time every day, they may be suffering from sundowner syndrome. When a person with a memory condition shows signs of having sundowner syndrome, it is a good idea to consider one of the many Massachusetts' memory care complexes.

Caring for a family member who has Alzheimer’s disease can take up almost all of a person’s free time, and more. Caregiver burnout is a serious possibility, as memory conditions worsen and require increasing amounts of care. Depending on the specific memory condition, your loved one may even need care all night, which can make maintaining a working household much more difficult. If you notice that you are no longer able to balance your life, work and your loved one's care, it is a good idea to consider Massachusetts Alzheimer's care communities as a long-term solution.

List of Memory Care, Dementia & Alzheimer's Facilities in Massachusetts:

How to Choose A Memory Care Home in Massachusetts?

Any memory care home you choose for your loved one should meet their needs, as well as fall within your budget. Every dementia patient and Alzheimer's patient will have their own level care requirements, so it is important to choose a Massachusetts Alzheimer's care community that can provide for those needs. Take a tour of the locations you have in mind, speak with the residents, nurses and other family members if possible. This will give you a good idea about the type of atmosphere created at the location. Make sure you inquire about any discharge rules, visiting restrictions and about how they plan to keep your loved one happy and well cared for. If your loved one is able, involve them in the process to get their feedback and ease the transition from home to memory care.