What’s the difference between memory care and dementia care?

If you are facing the difficult decision of whether your loved one needs memory care in a facility or dementia care at home, understanding the differences between these options is essential for making the right choice.

The main distinctions between memory care and home-based dementia care involve the level of care provided, the environment in which care is delivered, and the associated costs. Both options offer assistance with activities of daily living, meals, and household tasks. However, memory care facilities provide a secure, structured environment with highly trained staff specialized in dementia care. Home-based dementia services allow seniors to remain in the comfort of their own home, but costs can increase as care needs grow.

In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between memory care facilities and home-based dementia care, helping you make an informed decision for your loved one.

What is Memory Care and Dementia Home Care?

Both options—memory care facilities and in-home dementia care—focus on supporting seniors living with memory loss, but they differ in setting, structure, and how care is delivered. Below, we break down what each type of care involves to help you determine which may be the best fit for your loved one.

Memory Care Facilities That Provide Dementia Care

Memory care facilities may operate as standalone centers or as part of a larger senior living community that offers multiple levels of care. These facilities provide specialized support for seniors experiencing memory loss, often due to Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.

Dementia care facilities typically offer services similar to those found in assisted living communities, including:

• Activities of daily living (ADLs)
• Management of medications
• Dining options
• Full-time supervision
• A high staff-to-resident ratio
• Staff that are highly trained in dementia care techniques
• Assess to on-site nursing care services as needed

Home Care Services for Seniors with Dementia

In-home care for individuals with dementia, often called in-home memory care, provides companionship, practical support, and peace of mind for family members. The level of care depends on the individual’s needs and can range from a few hours per week for meal preparation and light housekeeping to 24-hour supervision.

In a memory care community, caregivers assist with activities of daily living (ADLs) and encourage social interaction. However, forming a strong, personal bond between caregiver and senior is often easier in the familiar surroundings of home.

The specific memory care services are determined when a care plan or contract is created. These services typically include:

• Companionship which may include conversations, enjoyable activities, and companionship
• Driving the client to doctor’s appointments or physical therapy and helping with errands
• Help with dressing, bathing, and grooming
• Meal prep or delivery
• Washing dishes, doing laundry, and other housekeeping tasks
• Helping the senior with bills and managing finances
• Help with managing usual dementia symptoms

Memory Care vs. Home Care Cost

The national median cost of memory care is $6,450 per month, though prices vary depending on the state and specific community.

For in-home care, the national median rate is $33 per hour, but this also varies by location and the number of hours of care provided. For example, full-time in-home care at 44 hours per week would cost approximately $6,292 per month based on the national median. Costs may be higher if the home care aide has specialized dementia training, and lower if fewer hours of care are needed. As dementia progresses and care needs increase, the overall cost will rise accordingly.

Environment and Safety

Memory care requires your loved one to transition to a new community, while in-home care allows them to remain in the comfort of their own home. Since many seniors have lived in their homes for years, moving to a smaller space can be emotionally challenging. However, as care needs increase over time, home care may become insufficient or more costly.

The benefits of memory care communities often include:

• 24-hour availability of trained staff
• Secured entrances and exits for safety
• Accessibility features such as open floor plans

For those receiving dementia care at home, safety precautions may require certain modifications, including:

• Alarmed doors and windows to prevent wandering
• Locked cabinets, stove locks, grab bars, and replacing carpets for safer mobility
• Clear, clutter-free pathways throughout the home
• Sensory stimulation spaces, such as rooms designed for touch, light, or sound therapy

Properly Trained Staff

The training and expertise of caregivers can vary significantly depending on whether care is provided in a memory care facility or at home.

Memory Care Facilities

Caregivers in memory care communities typically receive extensive, specialized training in dementia and Alzheimer’s care. This includes recognizing and managing behavioral changes, supporting cognitive function, and providing structured activities designed to engage residents. Staff are often trained in emergency response, mobility assistance, medication management, and safety protocols specific to secure memory care environments. Because these caregivers work as part of a team, residents benefit from consistent care and a network of professionals who can respond to complex situations around the clock.

In-Home Care

Home caregivers may also receive dementia care training, but the scope and depth can vary widely depending on the agency or individual. Training often focuses on companionship, daily living assistance, medication reminders, and creating a safe, supportive environment in the home. While one-on-one attention can help build strong personal bonds, home caregivers may not have immediate access to the same specialized resources or backup that facility staff enjoy, and additional training may be required as care needs become more complex.

Understanding these differences in caregiver training can help families make an informed choice about which type of memory care will best support their loved one’s safety, comfort, and quality of life.

Activities and Amenities Offered

Activities and therapies for individuals with dementia can take place at home or in a community setting. However, memory care facilities often offer specialized programs in purpose-built environments designed to meet the unique needs of residents.

In a memory care community, staff encourage residents to stay active, maintain independence, and feel like themselves within a safe, supportive space. These facilities provide areas equipped with the right materials, supplies, and assistive devices to ensure residents are comfortable, safe, and engaged.

Common spaces for activities in a memory care community may include:

• Arts and crafts rooms
• Raised garden beds or therapeutic gardens
• Movie theaters
• Game rooms
• Beauty salons
• Indoor and outdoor walking paths

For home care, aides can also incorporate dementia-friendly activities designed to stimulate memory and engagement. While these activities can be highly beneficial in the familiar surroundings of home, the cost may increase as the disease progresses and additional support or specialized programs become necessary.

Deciding Between Memory Care Facility and Home Care

Choosing between a memory care facility and home-based dementia care is a deeply personal decision that depends on your loved one’s needs, preferences, and the resources available. Both options provide essential support, but the right choice often comes down to the level of care required, safety considerations, social engagement, and cost.

Memory Care Facilities

Memory care communities are designed to provide a structured, secure environment with 24-hour trained staff. They offer specialized programs, social activities, and therapeutic spaces that help residents stay active and engaged while ensuring their safety. For families, memory care facilities provide peace of mind knowing that professional caregivers are always on hand. This option can be particularly beneficial as dementia progresses, and care needs become more complex.

Home Based Dementia Care

Home care allows seniors to remain in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes, preserving independence and routine. Caregivers provide companionship, assistance with activities of daily living, and tailored dementia-focused programs. However, as the senior’s needs grow, home care may require more hours or specialized aides, which can increase costs. Safety modifications and additional support may also be necessary to create a secure environment.

Making the Choice

When deciding, consider your loved one’s stage of dementia, daily care requirements, social and emotional needs, and the family’s ability to provide support. Visiting memory care communities, consulting with healthcare providers, and exploring in-home care options can help families make a thoughtful, informed decision that balances safety, quality of life, and comfort.

Supportive In Home Dementia Care from A Place At Home -Carrollton

Deciding between a memory care facility and home-based dementia care is never easy, but the right choice depends on your loved one’s unique needs, preferences, and level of care required. While memory care facilities provide structured environments and 24-hour trained staff, home care offers the comfort, familiarity, and personal attention of remaining in one’s own home.