Frequently Asked Questions
What is dementia care like in Norwood, NJ?
We take pride in being among the leaders in the Norwood area for dementia care, support, and education. When you choose memory care at Arbor Terrace Norwood, you’re choosing a community designed to promote a peaceful, productive, and safe environment, supported by a team that is trained in the most current best practices for serving those who are living with dementia.
How do you know when someone needs dementia care?
If your loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia and you’re seeing signs that they’re struggling with daily functioning, need support most of the time, or seem afraid and lonely living at home, it may be time to consider memory care. Seniors with memory issues are at an increased risk for wandering, physical risk-taking that can lead to falls, and other unsafe behaviors.
Dementia or memory care facilities and programs are specially designed for seniors living with memory loss or other age-related cognitive impairment, and provide a calm and dignified environment that promotes independence and choice while reducing safety risks and distress. Here are five challenges of living with dementia that can prompt a move to a dementia care community.
What is the difference between dementia care and assisted living?
Both dementia or memory care and assisted living facilities offer supportive care to people with a range of health issues, including cognitive impairments. But with dementia care, the entire community is structured around the unique needs of people with dementia. This means that dementia care tends to be much more comprehensive, and residents’ days are spent with people highly experienced at managing dementia. Memory care offers dementia-friendly activities and staff trained in the psychological and physical effects of cognitive impairments. To understand the key differences, you may find this post from The Arbor Company blog helpful.
If you have questions about these different types of senior living at Arbor Terrace Norwood, or would like help determining which might be the best fit for you or your loved one, please contact us. We’re happy to answer your questions!
What is the difference between dementia care and a nursing home?
Nursing homes and dementia or memory care facilities both offer dementia and Alzheimer’s care, round the clock staff, and supervision to keep residents safe. Dementia care communities offer specialized staff members who are trained in issues with dementia care, and offer a structured day of activities that help to prevent behaviors associated with anxiety and depression. Meals are prepared to preserve dignity and independence, and environmental features are designed to keep residents safe and secure.
By contrast, a nursing home (also known as a skilled nursing facility) offers more comprehensive support to those who have extensive medical needs in more of a clinical environment. They provide the highest level of care possible outside of a hospital, delivering 24-hour care to seniors who have complex medical conditions and need hands-on assistance and monitoring. Skilled nursing facilities are the best choice for those who need assistance with tasks that go beyond the activities of daily living.
What does dementia care cost in Norwood, NJ?
The monthly rate for a dementia care facility in New Jersey can vary widely depending on the location and level of memory care that is needed.
How can dementia care be paid for?
There are numerous resources available to help pay for dementia or Alzheimer’s care. These include Medicare and Mediciad, employee benefits, long-term care insurance, and personal assets and savings. Veterans with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia may also be eligible for certain benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Our webinar, Understanding the VA Benefit for Senior Living, examines this benefit in further detail.
Every situation is different and it’s important to review any programs for which your loved one is eligible before they need to move. If you’d like assistance understanding your options, please contact us—we’re happy to help!
How much of dementia care is tax deductible in New Jersey?
If your loved one is in a dementia care residence due to Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, their care may be tax deductible. As a “long-term care service,” some or all of the expenses of dementia care do qualify for a medical expense tax deduction. We suggest consulting a tax advisor with questions regarding your specific situation and what may or may not be deductible in New Jersey.