Memory care is specialized care for seniors living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia to ensure their safety and quality of life.
Tips & Links
In BC, there are different levels of care for seniors and people living with life-limiting conditions from assisted living to 24-hour care in residential care which may include memory care services.
Learn About
- Memory care facilities offer a secure environment (to prevent wandering), specially trained staff, activities, medication management, assistance with all daily activities, meal support and feeding, emotional support and regular assessments. Family visiting is encouraged.
- Learn about the difference between assisted living and residential care residences from the Government of BC.
- When searching for a facility, ask about the different services that may be offered such as personal care and grooming, medication management, and recreational and social activities. Some facilities offer medical management, memory care, hospice care, palliative care and access to allied health professionals.
- Learn about available options for assisted living and residential care facilities from Route65.ca – BC Care Providers Association (BCCPA).
Things To Do
- Start planning early if you or your spouse are diagnosed with dementia. Consider the changes you are experiencing, aging in place, or exploring options for residential care.
- Question if your assisted living choices provide a campus of care, which means having other rooms onsite that provide memory care and 24 hour services.
- Inquire how families and caregivers can use memory care residences for short-term stays and respite care if they are caring for their loved one at home.
- Visit care facilities, talk to other residents and their families, and meet with staff. Some facilities offer a meal with the visit or a ‘temporary or trial stay’ for seniors interested in exploring the option of residential care.
Discuss your living situation wishes with your family and care partners using the Mywell Health activities in My Place to Call Home. Then make a list of residences in your community that meet your “wishes and wants”.