5 Key Differences Between Memory Care & Assisted Living
As we age, our care needs naturally evolve. For many families exploring senior living options, the decision between assisted living and memory care can feel overwhelming. Each path offers unique benefits and support systems tailored to residents' specific needs, and understanding the main differences is essential in making the most informed choice for a loved one.
At Lakewood Memory Care and Assisted Living in Brookfield, Wisconsin, we often speak with families navigating this very journey. Whether you’re beginning to explore assisted living communities or considering a transition to a memory care facility, our goal is to provide clarity, comfort, and guidance during this important time. While many communities offer both assisted living and memory care under one roof, understanding the distinct focus of each helps ensure the right environment is chosen for your loved one’s unique needs.
Let’s take a closer look at the five key distinctions between assisted living and memory care, and how each option supports the evolving needs of seniors.
1. The Level and Type of Care Provided
The most foundational difference between assisted living and memory care lies in the level of care and type of support each offers. This is especially true when looking at how memory care differs in its structure and daily approach to resident life.
Assisted living is ideal for seniors who value independence but may need help with daily living tasks such as bathing, dressing, grooming, or medication management. In assisted living communities, residents benefit from access to nutritious meals, scheduled social activities, and caring staff who are there to provide assistance when needed, without compromising autonomy.
In contrast, memory care is specifically designed for seniors living with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or other forms of cognitive decline. These memory care communities offer a higher level of specialized care, often with 24/7 oversight by team members trained to support those with memory impairments. The approach at Lakewood emphasizes person-centered care, ensuring that every resident receives attention and support that honors their unique history, personality, and needs.
While both types of senior living communities offer personalized care, memory care residents often require more structured routines, guidance throughout the day, and specialized support tailored to their mental and emotional wellbeing.
2. Environment and Safety Design
Another major distinction is how the community environment is designed to promote comfort and safety.
Assisted living facilities are generally created with ease of access in mind. At Lakewood Memory Care and Assisted Living, our community is walkable, with garden plots, meditation areas, and inviting common spaces that encourage residents to socialize, relax, and engage in certain activities independently or with friends.
However, for individuals experiencing memory loss, the risk of disorientation increases. That’s why our memory care spaces are thoughtfully designed to offer a secure environment, reducing confusion and ensuring that residents remain safe while still enjoying freedom of movement. Our team uses proven strategies to gently guide residents and reduce the risk of disorientation, ensuring they feel safe and supported throughout their day.
At Lakewood, this includes special areas for family gatherings, calming sensory spaces like our Sensory Spa, and inviting activity zones tailored to both mental and physical wellness. These purposeful design elements make a meaningful difference in day-to-day life.
3. Programming and Activities
While both assisted living and memory care communities offer vibrant lifestyle programming, the goals and structure of activities vary based on resident needs.
In assisted living, residents enjoy a wide variety of engaging activities that support overall wellness, such as fitness classes, volunteer opportunities, and social events. Whether it’s crafts for a cause, nature walks, or musical hymns, seniors are encouraged to participate in ways that reflect their interests and strengths, offering valuable social opportunities to connect with peers and find joy in everyday life.
Memory care, on the other hand, places greater emphasis on activities that support cognitive function and emotional wellbeing. At Lakewood, our Holistic Memory Care Program is based on Montessori principles, emphasizing sensory stimulation, spiritual expression, and meaningful routines. This might include therapy dog visits, sensory therapy, or even exploring dream destinations through our VR Bucket List Program—a beloved feature that brings joy and wonder to our memory care residents.
These specialized therapies aren't just enriching—they're clinically grounded, supporting mental health, communication, and emotional expression for people living with dementia and other memory-related conditions.
4. Staff Training and Resident Support
Another important distinction is the level of training required for staff in each care setting.
Team members in assisted living communities are highly trained in supporting residents with their daily living needs while promoting independence. Compassionate assistance, respectful communication, and health monitoring are all part of the routine care offered.
In memory care, staff receive specialized training in supporting seniors with cognitive impairments, often including techniques to de-escalate confusion or distress, encourage participation, and ensure a calm, comforting atmosphere. At Lakewood, our staff are not only experienced—they’re deeply passionate about nurturing each resident’s dignity, identity, and sense of belonging, all of which are essential to emotional and cognitive well being.
We believe in personalized care, built around a resident’s lifetime habits and routines—not the other way around. From mealtime preferences to spiritual rituals, we see the whole person behind the diagnosis.
5. Cost Structure and Services Offered
Finally, the services offered and cost structure often vary between assisted living and memory care settings.
Assisted living may include services such as three meals a day, weekly housekeeping, transportation, and support with personal care, with a cost that reflects the level of support each resident requires.
Because of the higher level of staff involvement, enhanced safety features, and specialized therapies, memory care often comes at a higher cost. However, it also delivers a higher level of individualized care, continuous supervision, and health management—offering peace of mind to families and an enriched quality of life for the residents.
At Lakewood, we offer an all-inclusive model, providing both assisted living and memory care residents with everything they need to feel supported, secure, and valued in our senior living community. Our focus on health, purpose, and longevity is woven into every aspect of life here, from gourmet dining inspired by the MIND Diet, to calming nature-based routines, and thoughtful care coordination.
Choosing the Right Community for Your Loved One
Choosing between assisted living and memory care is a thoughtful decision shaped by your loved one’s current needs, health, and the kind of daily support that will help them thrive.
For those in the early stages of needing help with daily living, assisted living may be the perfect blend of independence and support. But if you or your loved one is living with Alzheimer’s, dementia, or increasing memory impairments, a memory care community will offer the safety, structure, and specialized expertise needed to truly thrive.
What matters most is finding a place that not only meets clinical needs but also nurtures emotional well being, encourages social connection, and celebrates the unique spirit of each resident—and gives family members peace of mind knowing their loved one is safe and supported.
Discover Compassionate Care at Lakewood in Brookfield, WI
At Lakewood Memory Care and Assisted Living in Brookfield, WI, we understand that no two lives are alike. That’s why we’re dedicated to offering person-centered care that adapts to the changing needs of our residents and their families—delivered with compassion, respect, and a deep understanding of the journey ahead.
Contact us today to schedule a tour and see firsthand how Lakewood is redefining senior care in Brookfield. We’d love the opportunity to show you what makes life at Lakewood so special.