Arkansas Memory Care Facilities

The question isn't why would you want to live in a memory care home in Arkansas, but why wouldn't you? Arkansas dementia care communities rank second all over the country for their low cost. Memory care community residents can take advantage of one of the most affordable states in the country, next only to West Virginia, to receive excellent services that truly enhance their quality of life.

Even though Arkansas Alzheimer's care facilities are extremely affordable, they do not sacrifice care and quality in terms of features and amenities related to specialized care for Alzheimer's and other dementia forms. These care homes offer great value in terms of price while catering to the needs of people suffering from memory loss.

The Cost of Memory Care Facilities in Arkansas

So, you know that Arkansas’ dementia care facilities are cheap, but exactly how cheap? The average room rate in homes for dementia care in Arkansas amount to $145 per day. The national average is more than $20 at approximately $160 per day.

Furthermore, there is a higher volume of affordable homes for dementia care in Arkansas compared to the rest of the nation and costs of rooms can often fall below the average.

The average cost of memory care in Arkansas is approximately $4,400 per month. However, costs can vary significantly depending on the city, the facility's level of care, and the amenities provided. Below is a table showing the memory care costs for 20 of the largest cities in Arkansas:

Memory care costs in Arkansas generally range from $3,800 to $4,600 per month, with the state average around $4,400. Larger cities such as Little Rock, Fayetteville, and Bentonville tend to have higher costs, while smaller cities like Blytheville and El Dorado are more affordable. The cost of memory care can be influenced by factors like location, facility size, and the level of personalized care offered.

The most popular cities for Alzheimer's care homes in Arkansas, along with high-quality memory care communities exclusive to dementia and Alzheimer's are available in Little Rock (nearly 200,000 in population), Fort Smith (population 87,500), Fayetteville (81,900), Springdale (77,000) and Jonesboro (73,000). The communities of Rogers, Bentonville, and Pine Bluff also have access to high-quality Arkansas memory care communities.

Affording Arkansas Dementia Care

Arkansas may offer the most affordable memory care, but a little help is always appreciated when it comes to financing a loved one's long-term care. In case you need some support, consider looking into some of the programs below.

• Living Choices Assisted Living Waiver
  • Eligibility: Residents who require the high level of care that are provided in assisted living and memory care facilities are eligible for this program. It is worth noting that while the waiver does include the cost of care treatment provided at a facility, it does not include the cost of the room and other boarding expenses if any.
     
• Personal Care Program
  • Eligibility: Any Arkansas resident of any age, gender, and ethnicity whom their physician has deemed in need of a higher care level that memory care homes can provide, may apply. Those with monthly incomes not exceeding $783 as an individual applicant and $1175 as couple applicants are eligible. Lastly, residents of Alzheimer's special care units are also encouraged to apply if their memory care community is a state-approved Medicaid provider.

You can also research on other avenues like life insurance, medical insurance, long-term care insurance, reverse mortgages, and veterans’ benefits should you need additional support for your loved one's dementia care needs.

Starting a New Chapter at a Dementia Care Home in Arkansas

Dementia, according to the Alzheimer's Association, is an umbrella term that generally refers to memory loss. More than just forgetfulness, dementia also involves the loss of language capacities, problem-solving capabilities, and thinking abilities that lead to a disruption in daily life and function. There are many forms of dementia, with Alzheimer's being the most common.

In Alzheimer's, dementia worsens over time. Although research shows that the average age where Alzheimer's starts is around 65 to 74, the disease can affect people of any age and gender. Statistics from the Alzheimer's Association states that more than 5 million people in the United States alone are affected by Alzheimer's. Although many people with dementia live independently or with family, the number of people living in assisted-living homes or Alzheimer's care communities is steadily growing. This transition may be attributed to the enhancement of services these facilities provide, the availability of affordable options, and the presence of support systems that help pay for these services. But how do you know if it's time to relocate a family member with the condition?

According to geriatricians, you should consider five things: your loved one's behavior, their safety, their health, the status of their functionality, and your own capability to address their changing needs, and the well-being of their primary caregiver.

The confusion and disorientation that comes with Alzheimer's and other types of dementia are a risk to their safety even if they live with family and more so, if they live alone. Since mobility is usually intact, it does not stop them from venturing outdoors. Problems happen when they forget the address or how to get back. They may not even remember whom to call for help. Chances of forgetting road safety rules and ignoring warning signs and traffic signals can put them at an even bigger risk.

If you are the primary care giver of a person with dementia, consider asking yourself the following:

• Is the health of the loved one deteriorating?
• Are they a threat to their safety when left alone for even a short period of time?
• Are you neglecting your responsibilities?
• Do you feel disconnected from your other family and friends?
• Are you neglecting your health and your needs?
• Are you becoming a more irritable and impatient?
• Are you feeling like you are out of your depth and are not qualified to give the best care that your loved one requires any longer?

If 'yes' is your answer, then it’s about time that you consider a memory care home.

As a caregiver and family member, you may feel guilty in allowing someone else to care for your loved one. You may feel un-filial because you feel that you need to be the one taking care of them. But allowing a trained professional to address the need of your loved one is the best form of care you can give at the moment. You are allowing them to get the best help they need while improving the quality of their life and getting yours back.

Arkansas Memory Care Facilities vs. Assisted Living Facilities

In an assisted-living home, people with special needs can continue to live independently, with immediate access to healthcare and support services. Aside from boarding and lodging, assisted-living centers may also provide physical, mental and emotional support and allow for social interactions with other community members.

However, given that they are mostly unregulated by the central government there are chances for significant discrepancies in the care quality, facilities development, amenities acquisition, building maintenance, and overall community management. Although nursing homes and Arkansas’ assisted living homes can have a special memory care unit separate from the rest of the institution, with qualified staff to provide the specialized care that patients with dementia require, not every facility may have it.

On the other hand, memory care communities are equipped and trained to provide care to people diagnosed with Alzheimer's and other types of dementia.

In addition to providing meals, rooms and other support services, they also offer behavioral health services, assisting in the administration of memory care-specific treatments, and supervising individual and group therapies together with any additional services as required.

Arkansas' Department of Human Services, Office of Long-Term Care, and Division of Medical Services are the primary licensing and regulating bodies for the state’s memory care facilities. These facilities need to offer 24-hour assisted-living services to at least three adult residents in a safe and well-maintained environment. The Office of Long-Term Care reviews a facility's setup and quality of service annually through planned or unannounced inspections. This ensures that the patients are safe and well-cared for in a peaceful and well-maintained environment.

Memory Care vs Dementia Care in Arkansas

When discussing senior care options in Arkansas, the terms "memory care" and "dementia care" often come up, but they are sometimes used interchangeably. However, they refer to different approaches to managing individuals with cognitive decline. Both services cater to individuals who require specialized support due to memory loss, but they have distinct features and implications, particularly for residents in Arkansas.

Memory Care

Memory care is a specialized type of long-term care designed to provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals experiencing memory loss. This service is available in assisted living communities or as a separate wing within nursing homes. Memory care focuses on individuals with varying degrees of cognitive impairment, including Alzheimer’s disease, but also other forms of dementia and general memory loss associated with aging.

In Arkansas, memory care facilities are specifically equipped to handle the daily needs of those with significant memory loss. They often have structured routines, specially trained staff, and security measures to ensure the safety of residents. These facilities offer a range of services, including:

• Personal care assistance: Help with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and eating.
• Cognitive stimulation: Memory care programs that include activities to help residents maintain cognitive function and improve quality of life.
• Specialized care staff: Caregivers who are trained in dealing with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other forms of cognitive decline.
• Security: Secure environments to prevent wandering and ensure safety for residents who might be at risk of getting lost or harmed.

Memory care is generally intended for individuals with moderate to severe memory impairment who need a higher level of care than typical assisted living can provide.

Dementia Care

Dementia care, on the other hand, is a more specific form of care tailored to individuals diagnosed with dementia, a group of symptoms affecting memory, thinking, and social abilities. Dementia includes various conditions, the most common being Alzheimer’s disease, but it also encompasses other forms such as vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia.

In Arkansas, dementia care facilities or units are often part of broader healthcare facilities or specialized long-term care settings. The focus of dementia care is not only on managing memory issues but also addressing the complex needs of individuals with varying symptoms of dementia, including behavioral and psychological challenges. Key aspects of dementia care in Arkansas include:

• Comprehensive medical care: Monitoring for physical health problems and managing the symptoms of dementia.
• Behavioral and emotional support: Addressing agitation, aggression, depression, and other behavioral symptoms commonly associated with dementia.
• Individualized care plans: Customizing care to meet the needs of the person with dementia, recognizing that each person’s condition progresses differently.
• Safety measures: Ensuring environments are safe and designed to minimize the risks of falls, wandering, and other safety concerns related to dementia.

While memory care can be considered a more general term for anyone dealing with memory issues, dementia care is focused on individuals diagnosed specifically with dementia-related illnesses.

Key Differences Between Memory Care and Dementia Care in Arkansas

1. Scope of Care: Memory care tends to be broader, designed for people with general memory loss or early cognitive issues, while dementia care specifically targets those with dementia-related conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease.
2. Specialization: Dementia care focuses more on managing the complex symptoms of dementia, including behavioral issues, while memory care focuses on helping residents with memory loss maintain their independence for as long as possible.
3. Care Setting: In Arkansas, both types of care may be available in assisted living or nursing home settings, but dementia care often involves more intensive medical oversight due to the nature of dementia conditions.

Availability of Services in Arkansas

In Arkansas, both memory care and dementia care services are growing in response to the increasing number of older adults, particularly as the state's aging population expands. Many of the state’s memory care facilities are affiliated with larger senior living communities or nursing homes, while dementia-specific care units may be offered within healthcare systems or through specialized dementia care facilities.

For families considering care options, it’s essential to explore both types of care to determine which is more suitable for their loved one’s needs. Factors to consider include the stage of cognitive decline, specific behavioral symptoms, and the level of medical care required. In addition, visiting facilities, speaking with caregivers, and understanding the types of activities and support offered are critical steps when making this important decision.

Admission Requirements in Arkansas Memory Care Facilities

Once you decide that a transition is the need of the hour, you first need to check if your patient fits the eligibility criteria. Seniors diagnosed with dementia and requiring a higher level of care can be admitted to memory care facilities in Arkansas, following a facility assessment. In addition, patients suffering from dementia due to traumatic brain injuries and those with physical and developmental disabilities are eligible to be admitted after thorough assessments.

An inability to evacuate on their own, immobility, incontinence, incapability to communicate with staff may be grounds for ineligibility for admission. In addition to this, people who require intravenous feeding, special dietary needs that the facility cannot readily meet, physical restraints, and temporary nursing services may be denied admission too. Lastly, individuals who have infectious diseases and pose a threat to the health and safety of other residents' may not be admitted as well.

However, please note that these requirements apply to special care units and it’s best to clarify with each facility about their admission requirements and eligibility criteria.

Choosing the Dementia Care Home in Arkansas for Your Loved One

It is ideal to visit several facilities and meet with the people who run it as well the caregivers who work there, before signing up for their services. This will give you an idea of how the facility is run and the services they provide. It is also a good time to ask how the community is run and see how the future would look like for you and your loved one.

Some question to consider asking:

• About their care plan and the involvement allowed and required from family.
• About the process for updating and informing family about changes in the health or care requirements.
• If and whom the patient’s family can contact for updates.
• About the scope of care provided and whether it covers medical treatments, personal care and physical assistance.
• About the availability of an in-house physician, registered nurses and other health care professionals.
• If their staff are trained in dementia care.
• If residents would be escorted to hospitals and emergency rooms if required.
• About the ratio of residents to staff.
• About the size of living areas, their layout and if residents are allowed to bring personal belongings.
• If the living arrangements allow for independence and ease of movement.
• About the area of indoor and outdoor space.
• Whether the place supports an active and healthy lifestyle.
• About how often and when family visits are permitted.
• If family can access the patient’s room, or if visits are restricted to designated areas.
• If there’s a registered nutritionist on the staff and whether special dietary needs will be taken into consideration.
• The policies for discharge and situations warranting a discharge?
• About the options available for continued care through the patient’s lifetime.

Amenities in Arkansas Dementia Care

Along with remarkably affordable room costs, Arkansas's memory care facilities feature a wide range of high-quality amenities. Like most nursing homes and assisted living facilities in the state, meals are served daily, housekeeping, and other routine tasks like assistance getting in and out of bed, bathing, using the restroom, and more are assured in a memory care community.

Regular activities are scheduled and encouraged by staff to help each resident acclimatize to the community. Residents are always treated with respect, privacy and care and family members are kept up to date with any rapid changes in health, habits or personality.

A common symptom with dementia and Alzheimer's is that the patient can change demeanor in a heartbeat. Staff are not only trained and equipped to handle these changes but are also prompt in communicating with family about their loved one's well-being.

Leisure is also encouraged at Arkansas’ dementia care homes. The activities and interactions are designed to make new residents feel as comfortable and secure in their new environment.

Here's a more detailed list of common amenities that a family can find on an Arkansas memory care home:

1. Specialized Staff and Training

Memory care facilities in Arkansas employ caregivers who are trained in dementia care and understand the unique challenges faced by individuals with cognitive impairments. Staff members typically receive ongoing education to better address residents' needs, including how to manage difficult behaviors, provide emotional support, and encourage engagement through activities that stimulate the mind.

2. Safe and Secure Environment

Security is a top priority in memory care units. These facilities are designed to minimize confusion and wandering, which are common in individuals with dementia. Many memory care communities feature enclosed outdoor areas, alarm systems, and controlled access to prevent residents from wandering off-site. Inside, the layout is often more structured with clear signage and simple designs to help residents navigate the space.

3. Personalized Care Plans

Each resident in a memory care facility in Arkansas is provided with a personalized care plan. These plans take into account the individual's health history, cognitive abilities, and preferences, ensuring that care is tailored to meet specific needs. Regular assessments help adjust these plans as the resident's condition changes over time.

4. Memory-Stimulating Activities

Memory care facilities in Arkansas offer a range of engaging activities to help stimulate memory and improve quality of life. Activities may include:

• Cognitive therapies: Puzzles, memory games, and reminiscence therapy aimed at encouraging residents to recall positive memories.
• Music and art therapy: Research has shown that music and art can trigger emotional responses and bring comfort to those with dementia.
• Physical exercises: Activities such as yoga, walking, or chair exercises help improve motor function and maintain physical health.
• Socialization opportunities: Group activities and events are designed to foster socialization, helping residents maintain a sense of community.

5. Nutritional Support

Memory care facilities ensure that residents receive well-balanced, nutritious meals that cater to specific dietary needs. In many facilities, meals are served in a supportive, calm environment where staff assist those with eating difficulties. Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining cognitive and overall health, and facilities often offer a variety of meal options to meet individual tastes and preferences.

6. Family Support and Education

Many Arkansas memory care facilities offer family members support through counseling, educational resources, and support groups. These services help families navigate the emotional challenges of caregiving and understand how to best communicate with and care for their loved ones with memory impairments. Some facilities also host family events to foster connection and provide reassurance.

7. Transportation and Outings

Transportation is often provided for residents to attend medical appointments or to go on outings. These outings, which may include trips to local parks, shopping centers, or cultural events, offer residents an opportunity to experience the community beyond the facility, which is vital for maintaining a sense of normalcy and engagement.

8. Increased Medical Oversight

Memory care facilities in Arkansas often provide higher levels of medical care compared to traditional assisted living facilities. This may include access to on-site nurses, physicians, and specialists who can address any medical issues related to dementia or other health conditions. Facilities are equipped to manage medications, monitor vital signs, and handle any emergency situations that may arise.

9. Comfortable Living Spaces

Memory care units in Arkansas offer comfortable, home-like environments. Rooms and common areas are designed to be safe and calming, often featuring soft lighting, familiar décor, and sensory elements that can trigger pleasant memories. Some facilities also allow residents to personalize their living spaces with photos or belongings to make them feel more at home.

10. Pet Therapy

In some memory care facilities in Arkansas, pet therapy is incorporated to enhance emotional well-being. Interaction with animals can have a therapeutic effect on people with dementia, helping to reduce anxiety and agitation.

Security measures in memory care facilities in Arkansas

Memory care facilities in Arkansas, as with those across the United States, have stringent security measures in place to ensure the safety and well-being of residents, particularly those living with Alzheimer's, dementia, and other cognitive impairments. These security protocols are designed to prevent wandering, ensure medication safety, and protect residents from harm, all while maintaining a comfortable and supportive environment.

1. Physical Security Features

Memory care units are often secured with physical barriers to prevent residents from leaving the premises unsupervised. Common security features include:

• Secure Doors and Gates: Specialized doors and gates equipped with alarm systems or locked entryways help prevent residents from wandering away. These systems are designed to limit access to common areas or outdoor spaces.
• Fencing and Perimeter Security: Many memory care facilities have enclosed outdoor spaces that are surrounded by secure fencing, preventing residents from walking off the property.
• Alarm Systems: Exit doors are typically equipped with alarms that notify staff if a resident attempts to leave without authorization. This can be vital in preventing wandering and ensuring immediate response if needed.

2. Surveillance and Monitoring

In addition to physical barriers, memory care facilities often rely on technology to monitor residents’ movements and overall safety:

• Cameras: Surveillance cameras are often installed in hallways, common areas, and even some individual rooms to monitor the activities of residents and staff, ensuring quick response to emergencies.
• Electronic Tracking Systems: Many facilities use wearable devices or sensors that track a resident's movements. These systems can alert staff if a resident moves beyond certain designated areas or is in danger.
• Emergency Call Systems: Residents can use call buttons or other communication devices to alert staff to emergencies, ensuring prompt assistance if a resident needs help.

3. Trained Staff and Supervision

Highly trained staff members play a crucial role in maintaining the security and well-being of residents. Memory care staff are specifically trained to handle the unique needs of individuals with cognitive impairments, including:

• Monitoring Resident Behavior: Caregivers are trained to observe behavioral changes and address potential safety concerns before they escalate.
• Personalized Care Plans: Each resident often has an individualized care plan that includes safety measures tailored to their needs. This ensures that the care provided is both appropriate and effective.
• 24/7 Supervision: Many facilities provide round-the-clock supervision, with staff members trained in dementia care available to respond to needs and emergencies at any time.

4. Medication Management

Ensuring that residents receive the correct medications at the right times is a key part of security in memory care facilities. To avoid medication errors, facilities may implement:

• Automated Medication Dispensing: Some facilities use automated systems to store and distribute medications, reducing the risk of human error.
• Medication Reminders and Checks: Caregivers provide regular checks to ensure residents are taking their medications correctly and at the prescribed times.
• Controlled Access to Medications: Medications, particularly controlled substances, are stored in locked cabinets or safes to prevent unauthorized access and misuse.

5. Environmental Design and Layout

The physical layout and design of a memory care facility are key to maintaining security while also ensuring residents’ comfort:

• Clear Signage and Wayfinding: Facilities often use clear and simple signs, color coding, and visual cues to help residents navigate the building, reducing confusion and anxiety.
• Safe, Stimulating Spaces: The design of memory care environments is intentionally aimed at providing a calming atmosphere, with safe areas for activities, dining, and socialization. This layout minimizes risks and helps residents feel more secure in their surroundings.
• Anti-Slip Flooring: To reduce the risk of falls, facilities use specialized flooring designed to provide better grip and prevent accidents.

6. Emergency Preparedness and Response Plans

In addition to daily safety measures, memory care facilities in Arkansas must have clear emergency preparedness plans. These plans are designed to address a variety of situations, including:

• Evacuation Procedures: In case of fire, severe weather, or other emergencies, facilities have evacuation plans in place. Staff are trained to evacuate residents safely and efficiently, ensuring that those with cognitive impairments are supported throughout the process.
• Natural Disaster Protocols: Arkansas, being in Tornado Alley, requires that memory care facilities have specific protocols for natural disasters, ensuring the safety of residents during storms or other weather-related emergencies.
• Medical Emergencies: Facilities have trained staff and access to medical resources to address sudden health issues, such as heart attacks or strokes, ensuring that immediate care is available.

7. Visitor and Access Control

Visitor control is another key component of security in memory care facilities:

• Visitor Logs and Check-in Procedures: Facilities often require visitors to sign in and out, with staff monitoring who enters and leaves. This helps prevent unauthorized visitors from accessing residents.
• Background Checks for Staff and Visitors: Facilities conduct thorough background checks for staff and, in some cases, visitors. This helps ensure that everyone interacting with residents is trustworthy and safe.
• Visitation Hours and Policies: To prevent disruption and ensure the safety of all residents, many facilities have set visitation hours and policies that govern who can visit and when.

When should someone with dementia go to memory care in Arkansas?

Deciding when someone with dementia should transition to memory care in Arkansas is a deeply personal and often difficult decision. The process involves assessing the individual's health, safety, and overall well-being, as well as the ability of family members or caregivers to provide proper support. While every case is unique, there are several key factors to consider:

1. Increased Difficulty with Daily Activities

As dementia progresses, individuals often struggle with everyday tasks such as bathing, dressing, eating, and maintaining personal hygiene. If the person can no longer manage these basic needs independently, it may be time to consider memory care. Memory care facilities are designed to assist with these tasks in a structured and supportive environment.

2. Safety Concerns

Individuals with dementia may experience wandering, disorientation, or forgetfulness that makes them at risk of injury. If a person with dementia is consistently unable to remember how to use appliances, manage medications, or stay safe within the home, it is an indicator that a secure environment with specialized supervision is necessary. Memory care facilities offer safety features such as secured doors and supervised environments that help mitigate these risks.

3. Behavioral Changes

Dementia often leads to significant mood swings, aggression, or agitation. If the person begins exhibiting behavioral changes that are difficult to manage at home, such as frequent outbursts, hallucinations, or extreme confusion, a memory care setting can provide professional support. Staff in memory care facilities are trained to manage these behaviors in a calm and safe manner.

4. Caregiver Stress and Burnout

Family members and primary caregivers of someone with dementia may face emotional and physical exhaustion. Providing care for a loved one with dementia can be overwhelming, especially as the disease progresses. If caregiving responsibilities become too demanding, leading to burnout or negative impacts on the caregiver's health, transitioning to memory care may be a necessary step. Memory care offers professional support, alleviating the stress on caregivers while ensuring the individual receives appropriate care.

5. Declining Health or Medical Needs

In many cases, individuals with dementia experience additional medical conditions that require ongoing attention, such as diabetes, heart problems, or mobility issues. If the individual’s medical needs become more complex and difficult to manage at home, memory care facilities equipped with medical support services can offer a higher level of care and attention.

6. Difficulty Communicating

Dementia can impair communication, making it challenging for individuals to express their needs, understand others, or maintain meaningful conversations. When verbal communication deteriorates to the point that the person becomes increasingly isolated or unable to engage with family members, moving to memory care can provide a structured environment where specialized staff are trained to interact effectively with those experiencing cognitive decline.

7. Lack of Social Engagement

Individuals with dementia may become socially withdrawn, either due to cognitive decline or because they feel isolated at home. Memory care facilities offer a variety of social activities designed to stimulate cognitive function and maintain social engagement. If a person with dementia is no longer participating in hobbies or socializing with others, the structured environment of a memory care facility can provide the necessary support to keep them engaged and active.

8. Progression of Dementia

The decision to move to memory care should be based on the overall progression of dementia. If the individual’s condition is worsening, and they require more help than can be provided at home, it may be time to consider a transition. Memory care facilities are designed to accommodate individuals at all stages of dementia, with care plans that adjust based on the person’s specific needs.

Knowing More about Dementia and Memory Care in Arkansas

You can consider the free resources below, in case you are looking for more information on the topic of dementia care in the state of Arkansas:

• Alzheimer's Arkansas
• Arkansas Geriatric Education Collaborative
• Alzheimer's Association Arkansas Chapter