Older adults and their family members are wise to research senior living options before the need for them arises. Thanks to innovations and strides in the senior living industry, today’s communities are nothing like they were just a few decades ago. Instead, seniors enjoy a variety of choices when it comes to senior living options, each of them comfortable instead of clinical.
However, it’s easy to become overwhelmed when looking at senior living options. Perhaps one of the most common questions revolves around personal care versus dementia care. How can you know which solution is best for your current and future needs?
Here is how these two specific options differ from one another, and how to make your best decision.
Personal Care vs. Dementia Care
Personal care and dementia care are two common senior living options throughout the Exton area. Though these two community types are similar in some respects, they differ greatly in their purpose and specialty.
How personal care and dementia care are similar
Personal care and dementia care communities are both regulated by the state of Pennsylvania. This means that communities are required to meet certain standards in regard to staffing, environmental factors, safety, and everything else that affects resident care and quality of life.
Both types of communities are also residential, which means residents live there. Exceptional communities feature spacious and light-filled apartments that cater to a variety of budgets and encourage residents to express their personal style through the way they decorate their new home.
Personal care and dementia care communities also offer similar amenities, including three chef-prepared meals per day (along with snacks), life enrichment activities, access to outdoor spaces, and round-the-clock assistance from caregivers. Personalized care plans are also a hallmark of exceptional communities.
Finally, personal care and dementia care communities both focus on providing assistance to residents that helps keep them safe, happy, and healthy.
How personal care and dementia care are different
Personal care and dementia care communities differ based on the residents they are designed to serve. Personal care communities serve older adults who could benefit from the extra peace of mind that comes with knowing caregivers are nearby and able to provide extra assistance with activities of daily living (dressing, showering, and so on). Dementia care communities offer a specialized environment and experience that is tailored to those living with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia.
Dementia Care Highlights
Dementia care communities are unique, with every environmental and lifestyle detail developed to improve independence and meet challenges commonly associated with the condition. Specialized touches make for a calm and safe environment that increases wellness and quality of life.
Look for these dementia care amenities in exceptional communities:
- Adapted dining environment and interventions as needed
- Safety measures including secured neighborhoods
- Access to outdoor spaces, such as a patio or garden
- Staff trained in dementia care best practices
- Family events, educational opportunities, and support groups
- Group activities that encourage cognitive exercise, physical movement, and reminiscing
- Individual interactions that mimic daily rhythms and preferences
- Personalized approach to care
Meaningful relationships cultivated between residents and staff members
How to Know Which Could Be Your Best Move
If you or your loved one has a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia, a dementia care community is your best choice. However, if the disease is in its early stages, you should consider investigating the Bridges neighborhood at Arbor Terrace Exton. Our one-of-a-kind program was made just for those with mild cognitive impairment or early cognitive decline.
If you aren’t sure which type of community is best for you, get more detailed information by downloading our free guide, “Finding a Safe and Comfortable Senior Living Community.”
