Frequently Asked Questions
What is dementia care like in Memphis?
We take pride in being among the leaders in the Memphis area for dementia care, support, and education. When you choose memory care at Opus East Memphis, 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.
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 memory care and assisted living facilities offer supportive care to people with a range of health issues, including cognitive impairments. But with memory care, the entire community is structured around the unique needs of people with dementia. This means that memory 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 Opus, 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 memory care and skilled nursing in Tennessee?
Opus was designed to be reminiscent of home, offering private apartments and independence for our residents. Our Reflections memory care neighborhood was designed especially for seniors who are living with Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia. From a peaceful environment to wellness-focused exercise programs, to calming sensory groups, our memory care program is meant to provide support, encouragement, and relationships for each of our residents. Our staff is available 24 hours a day, to ensure your loved one is receiving attentive care that will keep them more than just safe.
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.
How much does dementia care cost in Memphis, TN?
Dementia or memory care costs are generally 20-30% higher than assisted living costs—an expensive commitment, but something that's worth the cost. The average monthly rate for a memory care facility in Tennessee is $4,875, but pricing can vary widely depending on the location and level of dementia care that is needed. According to Caring.com, the average cost of memory care in Memphis is $5,773 per month.
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 Medicaid, 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, contact us—we’re happy to help!
How much of memory care is tax deductible in Tennessee?
If your loved one is in a memory 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 Tennessee.
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