What Is In-Home Memory Care?

In-home memory care is an alternative to hospital or community care that provides a wide range of services for patients with dementia. In-home memory care allows patients and caregivers to receive care without having to leave home. Having the ability to receive care at home provides great assistance and comfort to caregivers and dementia patients.

Dementia and Memory Home Care Services

There are a wide range of services available through in-home memory care. Some services focus on daily living, while other services provide medical assistance. The most common services include:

• Companion services. These services can be used to provide supervision, recreational activities, or visiting.
• Personal care services. These services may include things such as bathing, dressing, toileting, eating, exercising, or other personal care.
• Homemaker services. These services may include meal preparation or cooking, shopping, or housekeeping.
• Skilled care. These services include medical assistance such as wound care, injections, or physical therapy. Typically, a home healthcare agency will coordinate with a physician to assist with these types of services.

Memory Care vs Dementia In-Home Care: What’s the Difference?

There are certainly some similarities between memory care and dementia in-home care, but also important differences. The main differences between the two types of care include:

• Memory care. This type of care utilizes professional support for individuals who require help with daily tasks. Memory care often refers to in-home Alzheimer's caregivers, support services for Parkinson’s patients, and other memory-related health issues.
• Dementia in-home care. This type of care typically supports those who are in advanced stages of dementia, who require assistance completing everyday tasks. Dementia in-home care may cost more than memory care, depending on the level of assistance needed.

In-Home Memory Care FAQs

Does Medicare Cover In-Home Dementia Care?

Medicare may cover home care for dementia if services are deemed necessary by a healthcare provider.

Can Dementia Patients be Cared for at Home?

Yes. Caring for dementia patients at home is possible, but it requires a coordinated plan, involving multiple systems of support and caregivers.

What Stage Should Dementia Patients Stop Living Alone?

Typically, individuals with dementia should stop living alone when they begin struggling with activities of daily living (ADL’s), such as dressing, bathing, toileting, eating, etc. In general, once a dementia patient enters the moderate phase, it is considered unsafe to live alone.

Discover Expert In-Home Memory Care from Baptist Health

If you or your loved one are looking for options regarding in-home memory care, please reach out to Baptist today!