Which is better for your loved one—memory care vs home care? This question faces many families. Nearly 70% of seniors will need long-term care at some point. A survey by AARP found that 89% of seniors want to age at home, but many will need more help.
This post covers memory care or home care to guide you in making the best decision.
Memory Care vs Home Care: A Comparison of Care and Costs
What Is Memory Care?
Memory care is assisted living for seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia. It offers 24/7 supervision and trained staff. These facilities have safe spaces and activities designed for memory loss. Studies show seniors in memory care often experience reduced agitation and better routines.
Costs vary depending on the location and services. On average, memory care costs $6,935 per month in the U.S. This includes meals, personal care, and activities. The structured environment is perfect for seniors needing round-the-clock attention.
What Is Home Care?
Home care is support provided in the home. Caregivers assist with bathing, meals, and even companionship. Many families prefer this because it allows their loved ones to stay in a familiar place.
Home care costs around $31 to $34 per hour in 2024. For constant supervision, the monthly cost can reach $6,600 or more. However, families get to decide the level of care.
Which Provides Better Care?
Memory care facilities specialize in dementia care. They offer activities to improve cognitive health, with a strong emphasis on social interaction. Safety measures are standard.
Home care, on the other hand, offers personalized one-on-one attention. Care plans are flexible, but caregivers might not have specialized dementia training. Some families choose home care because it allows their loved ones to stay in a familiar place, but it can become expensive, especially if constant supervision is needed. The billing rate for home care is hourly, which adds up quickly.
Additionally, there’s a chance that no one will be available to care for the senior at all times. For example, what happens if the caregiver suddenly becomes absent? Unlike in memory care, where there is always staff available, home care may leave gaps in supervision.
What Should You Consider in Choosing Memory Care vs Home Care?
- How advanced is the memory condition?
- What is your budget?
- Would your loved one benefit more from socializing or staying home?
- Can family members stay involved in care?
The lowdown
There’s no perfect answer. Memory care works well for those needing structured, expert support. Home care is better for seniors who thrive in familiar surroundings. Talk to professionals and weigh your options carefully.
Spring House Senior Living
At Spring House, we understand that finding the right senior living community can be challenging. That’s why we offer a variety of amenities and services to cater to different needs and preferences.
Schedule a tour of one of our communities in Lithia Springs, or Louisville today. You’ll see why Spring House is the ideal choice for senior living.
