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Care That Fits: Memory Care vs. Skilled Nursing Explained

Finding the right care for a loved one can feel overwhelming and complex. With so many options available, families often struggle to determine which type of care best suits their loved one’s needs. Think of it like tailoring a suit: Everyone has unique requirements, and the perfect fit ensures comfort, security, and overall well-being.

At Duxbury House, we are committed to guiding families through this journey. Our expertise in specialized care ensures your loved one receives the support they need in a warm, nurturing environment. Read on to learn more about how you can make the best choice for your loved one with our helpful guide, created to help you understand the key differences between memory care and skilled nursing and make it easier to choose the right option.

What Is Memory Care?

Memory care is designed specifically for individuals living with Alzheimer’s, other forms of dementia or various cognitive impairments. This form of assistance surpasses conventional assisted living by providing organized support for mental and emotional health and well-being.

Key Features of Memory Care

  • Structured Routines: Daily schedules provide stability and comfort, reducing confusion and anxiety.
  • Secure Environments: Thoughtfully designed spaces ensure safety, preventing wandering and promoting independence.
  • Specialized Staff: Caregivers receive extensive training in dementia care, memory support, and behavioral management.
  • Engaging Activities: Programs are designed to stimulate cognitive function, encourage social interaction, and enhance quality of life.

What Is Skilled Nursing?

Skilled nursing provides medical care for individuals with chronic conditions, post-surgical recovery needs or serious illnesses. This type of care is often required for those with complex health conditions who need continuous medical supervision and long-term care but may also be temporary and rehabilitation-focused.

Key Features of Skilled Nursing

  • 24/7 Medical Supervision: Licensed nurses and healthcare professionals provide round-the-clock medical care.
  • Therapies: Physical, occupational and speech therapies help residents regain strength and independence.
  • Assistance With Activities of Daily Living (ADLs): Residents receive support with tasks such as bathing, dressing, and eating.

The Cost of Memory Care vs. Skilled Nursing

The cost of care varies based on individual needs and services provided. For example, memory care costs reflect cognitive support, engagement programs, and a secure environment. Skilled nursing costs are often higher due to advanced medical services, rehabilitation therapies, and round-the-clock nursing care.

The level of medical care required isn’t all that affects cost, however. So can:

  • Staffing levels and specialized training
  • Location and amenities of the community
  • Additional programs and therapies offered

How To Know What’s Right for Your Loved One

When deciding between memory care and skilled nursing, consider the following:

  • Does your loved one need support with memory loss and cognitive challenges?
  • Are there ongoing medical needs requiring frequent monitoring or specialized therapies?
  • Is safety a concern due to wandering or confusion?
  • What types of engagement activities would enhance their well-being and suit their abilities?

How Duxbury House Can Help

At Duxbury House, we specialize in Memory Care, ensuring residents with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia receive personalized, compassionate care. Our approach focuses on:

  • Tailored care plans designed to meet each resident’s cognitive and physical needs
  • Specialized staff trained in Memory Care techniques to foster connection and comfort
  • Enrichment programs and activities that stimulate cognitive abilities and enhance quality of life
  • Family collaboration to ensure peace of mind and the best care possible

Find Your Perfect Fit at Duxbury House

Choosing the right care option can make a world of difference in your loved one’s quality of life. At Duxbury House, we are dedicated to finding the perfect fit for your loved one’s needs while providing personalized care that supports your loved one’s well-being and your peace of mind.

Contact us today to learn more about our specialized Memory Care services or to schedule a tour to experience the warmth and compassion of our community firsthand.

Navigating Grief and Loss During the Holidays

Caring holding hands

The holiday season, often associated with joy and togetherness, can be especially challenging for those grieving the loss of a loved one. Celebrations and long-held traditions may deepen the sense of absence, serving as painful reminders of what has been lost. Supporting someone during this time is essential, yet it can be difficult to know what to say or do. The fear of missteps may even lead to avoiding the topic altogether.

 Understanding Grief During the Holidays

Grief is a deeply personal journey with no set timeline. Avoid assuming that someone should have “moved on” after a certain period. The holidays often intensify feelings of sadness, loneliness, or longing, as they bring up shared memories and societal expectations of joy. Grief can arise unexpectedly, and those mourning may experience a complex mix of emotions—moments of joy mixed with deep sorrow.

How to Support Someone Grieving

1. Acknowledge Their Loss

   Openly recognize their loved one by saying something like, “I’m thinking of you and [their loved one’s name] this season.” Encourage them to cherish the memories of their loved one while also creating new, meaningful holiday traditions.

2. Listen Without Judgment

   Let them express their feelings without trying to “fix” their grief. Your presence and a listening ear can be enough. Acknowledge that you may not have the perfect solution or the “right words,” but reassure them that you’re there for them.

3. Offer Practical Help

   Grief can be overwhelming, especially during the holidays. Instead of making general offers to help, suggest specific ways you can assist, such as running errands, helping with holiday preparations, or cooking meals. This approach reduces the pressure on them to identify their needs and makes it easier for them to accept support.

4. Respect Their Choices

   Grieving individuals might prefer to skip certain traditions or gatherings. Respect their boundaries and avoid pressuring them. Discuss their preferences for holiday celebrations in advance and remain flexible with the plans.

5. Create Space for Remembrance

   Encourage them to honor their loved one in a meaningful way, whether by lighting a candle, sharing a cherished memory, or creating a small tribute. Respect their preferences and avoid pressuring them to uphold traditions that might deepen their grief.

6. Be Patient

   Grief is not a linear process. Be patient and understanding if their mood shifts or they withdraw unexpectedly.

7. Make Kind Gestures

   Send a card, leave a heartfelt note, share a hug, or offer a thoughtful gift.

8. Encourage Self-Compassion

   If you’re supporting someone grieving, remind them to be gentle with themselves. Encourage self-care, whether it’s taking quiet moments to rest, journaling, or engaging in activities that bring them comfort.

A Final Thought

The holidays can be a bittersweet time for those experiencing loss, but with compassion and support, you can help make their journey a little easier. Small acts of kindness and genuine care can go a long way in showing them they are not alone.

If you have any further questions about Memory Care and whether it may be an appropriate fit for your loved one, please get in touch with me at [email protected] or 781-878-6700 x270. You can also click here or call us to learn more about Memory Care Assisted Living services at Duxbury House Memory Care Residence.

Article authored by:

Laurie Guthrie, MSW, LCSW, CDP
Welch Senior Living
Regional Memory Care Coordinator
Senior Clinical Social Worker
781-878-6700 x270

Memory Care Design

Enhancing Quality of Life for Residents

Memory care communities are essential in creating a secure and nurturing environment that enables residents with dementia to flourish. Thoughtful memory care design isn’t just about creating a functional space but also fostering a welcoming, homelike atmosphere that improves overall well-being.

By prioritizing specific elements—such as resident-friendly layouts, self-contained households, soothing decor, access to secure outdoor spaces, and intentional social spaces—communities like Duxbury House significantly enhance residents’ quality of life.

Merry Dalahmeh, Executive Director of Duxbury House, said, “At Duxbury House, our mission is getting to know each resident and creating programs to enhance their lives.”

Here’s how these design features can make a meaningful difference.

The Importance of a Homelike Environment

A crucial aspect of memory care design is creating a setting that feels like home. A homelike environment reduces anxiety and helps residents feel at ease, particularly for those with dementia who may find comfort in familiar, cozy spaces.

At Duxbury House, the community’s intimate layout is designed to be manageable and welcoming, unlike the large communities with overwhelming layouts. With only 24 units—12 per floor—residents enjoy a close-knit, welcoming atmosphere that fosters a strong sense of community and connection.

This thoughtful design approach not only offers residents a comfortable place to live but also allows staff to engage more closely with each individual, creating a warm and nurturing environment that feels less like a facility and more like home.

Self-Contained Households Foster Community

Self-contained households are a hallmark of effective memory care design, and Duxbury House takes this concept to heart. By organizing rooms into smaller, self-contained areas, residents feel a stronger sense of community and connection with those around them. 

These households are designed to foster independence within a structured environment, offering residents the opportunity to make meaningful social connections and reducing feelings of isolation.

Within these smaller groupings, staff can also provide more personalized care, attuned to the specific needs of each resident. This self-contained setup is especially beneficial for memory care residents, as they are able to form relationships with familiar faces in a consistent, supportive setting.

couple laughing and enjoying the view outside a window.

Soothing Decor and Open Spaces

Design elements like soothing decor and open spaces are integral to promoting mental health and fostering a peaceful, calming atmosphere within memory care environments. 

The right decor minimizes overstimulation—using soft, calming colors, ample natural lighting, and uncluttered layouts that help alleviate the anxiety and confusion frequently faced by people with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.

Gentle color schemes, natural elements, and well-placed lighting can create a sense of familiarity and tranquility, ultimately helping residents feel more at ease.

Intentional decor choice creates an environment that is visually calming yet still engaging. Thoughtfully selected colors and textures provide sensory stimulation without overwhelming residents, giving them a sense of comfort as they move through spaces. Art, furnishings, and decor are chosen to be familiar and soothing, enhancing residents’ sense of belonging and creating positive emotional cues.

Open spaces, free from obstructions, are equally essential, offering residents clear pathways and ample room to navigate easily and safely. These spaces reduce confusion and support individuals in exploring their environments independently, which can be crucial for fostering a sense of freedom and self-sufficiency.

The emphasis on spacious, clutter-free common areas allows residents to engage in activities or social interactions with ease, while quiet nooks provide a retreat when they need rest or privacy. This open design approach encourages residents to feel comfortable and empowered in their daily routines, supporting their independence and enhancing their overall well-being.

Outdoor Access to Secure Patios and Gardens

Access to the outdoors can be immensely beneficial to residents’ well-being, offering relaxation and sensory engagement that is  therapeutic and enjoyable. Duxbury House incorporates secure patios and gardens where residents can safely spend time outdoors, whether engaging in a gentle walk, gardening or simply enjoying fresh air.

Outdoor access is vital for memory care residents, as it allows them to reconnect with nature in a secure environment. These spaces are designed to be accessible, with easy-to-navigate pathways and seating areas that invite residents to linger and enjoy. The therapeutic benefits of fresh air, natural light, and the sights and sounds of nature help reduce stress and enhance mood, supporting a holistic approach to well-being.

Encouraging Social Interaction Through Intentional Design

Socialization is a key component of quality of life, and memory care communities are increasingly incorporating design elements that promote connection and interaction. At Duxbury House, shared spaces such as dining areas, lounges, and activity rooms are arranged to invite residents to interact naturally. 

Encouraging social interaction within a memory care setting helps reduce feelings of loneliness, maintains cognitive engagement, and fosters a positive emotional state. Thoughtful design can transform common spaces into gathering areas where residents feel safe to engage with one another, participate in group activities, and enjoy daily meals together in a communal, welcoming atmosphere.

Man reading by a window in a chair

Why Choose Duxbury House for Memory Care?

The Memory Care design at Duxbury House is thoughtfully crafted to enrich residents’ quality of life. With a welcoming, manageable layout, homelike environment, self-contained households, soothing decor, secure outdoor spaces, and inviting social areas, every feature is designed to provide comfort, safety, and connection.

As a stand-alone community with a smaller, personalized setting, Duxbury House offers a uniquely compassionate atmosphere where residents feel understood, valued, and fully supported. Family members  have peace of mind knowing their loved one is receiving the necessary dementia care.

When you’re looking for the right Memory Care community for your loved one, Duxbury House is here for you. We combine compassionate care with thoughtful design to ensure your loved one always feels cared for and supported. Contact us today at 781-350-4707 to learn how our community can provide your loved one with the care they need.

Duxbury House Family Testimonials

Caregiver Talking To Senior Man at Memory Care Community

Duxbury House Memory Care Residence receives wonderful words of appreciation from families. To anyone who has sent in such a message, we say “Thank You!” Caring for your loved ones is our privilege.

“I cannot say enough about the love and care my sister received from ALL members of the Duxbury House staff.  Duxbury House is a setting where my sister felt loved and safe and where ALL her needs were met.  The in-house activities are incredible: weekly communal cooking which was then shared among the residents, lots of games which kept the folks physically active and fostered a sense of community and camaraderie, all manner of crafts where all residents could proudly display their talents, a book club and walking group, movie nights, trips to the library and local restaurants, seasonal community outings and a wide array of live music which seemed to be a balm for the soul of all residents. Duxbury House itself is a beautiful facility with lovely decor.  The residents’ rooms are large with lots of natural light, the common areas are welcoming with comfy furniture that contributes to a home-like setting, the dining room is bright and airy and family members are always welcome to share a meal with their loved-one and in the warmer months many of the activities are moved outside onto the beautiful patios. Duxbury House not only provided love and supportive care to my sister, but they also provided love and support to our family. Duxbury House provided so much more than I could have hoped for and they delivered on the promise of taking extraordinary care of my wonderful sister. A special shout-out to the life enrichment team and the aides who lovingly cared for my sister even when they thought no-one was looking.”

– Kathleen D.
Family Member Testimonial

“My 4-year-old Willie so looks forward to his monthly visits to Duxbury House! While on-site, Willie and other children gather with their families and Duxbury House Memory Care residents for intergenerational story time and a craft. Willie loves that he can go right up to the reader and ask questions or comments during the read-aloud portion. He also likes getting to show off his finished art project after each visit!”

-Sarah S.
Community Member Testimonial

“When my husband and I were looking for a retirement community 9 years ago, we would only consider ones that were Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) and so we moved to The Village at Duxbury, which has the newly renovated Duxbury House Memory Care Residence on campus. Over the years our individual needs have changed, with my husband now being a resident at Duxbury House Memory Care since August 2022. The space is open and bright, with a lovely, inviting decor. The food is very good with varied menus and options available to suit personal tastes. But above all else, my family and I are delighted with the care the Duxbury House staff provides. The RNs and Aides are kind, knowledgeable, and supportive of the residents as is the activities staff. The staff has encouraged my husband to participate in various activities which he does with much enjoyment. His favorites include the visiting therapy animals, musical presentations, and of course the Sock Hop!”

-Rochelle K.
Family Member Testimonial

“For almost 3 years, [our loved one] had dealt with the growing effects of Alzheimer’s. It was a very hard and painful decision to decide that she needed residential care at a Memory Care Residence. Our decision to choose Duxbury House has been a terrific choice. The care they provide to each resident is beyond what I ever thought was possible. Each staff member whether they are activity coordinators, office staff, nurses, general help, or cooking staff all know all of the residents and go out of their way to support and help them with daily activities.

The Residence is first class with a layout designed for resident support and activities. They keep residents active with news discussions, exercise, arts and crafts, painting, games (physical and mental), and community meetings.

The food is excellent with dedicated chefs who are very accommodating to each resident’s schedule. I visit almost daily and see the support the staff gives to all residents and it is very comforting to know how they are treated.

Since coming to Duxbury House, [our loved one] has become more relaxed and she feels safe and secure. I am so relieved that she is in such a safe environment for her and that she is enjoying her daily routines.”

-Mike S.
Family Member Testimonial

The Stewarts enjoy activities offered through Duxbury House.

“Duxbury House was such an incredible find! My family and I feel so fortunate to have our mom living in such a warm and caring environment. The physical space is beautifully decorated, bright, cheerful, and clean, and there are lovely outdoor areas that are frequently used for activities, socializing, or just lounging about. The atmosphere is so homey, truly calming, and comforting. More importantly, the staff is remarkable. They provide activities galore to keep the residents active and engaged and are so wonderfully attentive and kind, meeting the needs of each individual in a way that appears seamless. To sum it up, Duxbury House has become my mom’s safe place and anyone that’s familiar with dementia knows that you can’t ask for much more than that. Thank you, Duxbury House.”

– Janice F.
Family Member Testimonial

Janice F. and her mother enjoying the holidays at Duxbury House

“Virtually every staff member at Duxbury House – including the aides, nurses, kitchen and custodial staff – has been exceptionally kind, thoughtful, loving, and caring in my experience. It really is quite amazing to be able to say this about any organization, but it is true of Duxbury House. Everyone who has worked with our family has been exceptional and deserves recognition for their efforts. You all have our love and gratitude for what you do.”

– Ted C.
Family Member Testimonial

“When you come here, you feel like you’re truly part of a community. And when our individual health needs changed, it has been such a relief that the village at Duxbury has been so well equipped to my wife and I transition into new accommodations that allow us to remain close to each other and to the groups, activities, and friendships we’ve become so involved in.”

-Ernie T.
Family Member Testimonial

Ernie T. and his wife, Jean T.

“The staff at the Duxbury House provide a safe and caring environment. The staff made it so easy for our loved one to settle into her new environment. She is always happily engaged with the staff and other residents. It brings us great comfort to see how she is content, happy, and active.”

– Bill D.
Family Member Testimonial

Siblings Anne and Bill D.

The following is a video testimonial from Duxbury House family member Ed D.

The following is a video testimonial from Duxbury House family member Ted C.