Delaware Memory Care Facilities

Delaware is often overlooked when it comes to the upper northeast part of the United States, an unfortunate oversight because Delaware is a great state to be in. Delaware’s dementia care facilities provide high standards of care and treatment at very cost-effective rates. This makes Delaware memory care facilities one of the most, if not the most affordable among the New England states that include New York, Connecticut, Vermont and New Jersey..

In fact, Delaware’s Alzheimer's care facilities sit right about at the national average of $160 per day, with even more affordable communities spread out across the state. Delaware's healthcare ranks among the best as well.

Cost of Memory Care Facilities in Delaware

Delaware is a rarity among the upper northeast, as just about every other state in the area is statistically more expensive for dementia care. The only other states that are priced close to Delaware Alzheimer's care homes are Rhode Island and Vermont, but they are pricier.

The average median cost for Delaware memory care is $7,100. A projected yearly cost equals about $85,000. More affordable Delaware memory care homes are reported as low as $150 per day, though the vast majority range much more in the $200 to $240 price range. Expensive dementia care homes in Delaware, meanwhile, can exceed $260 per day. Some of the most prestigious Alzheimer's care homes are priced between $180 and $240 per day.

The cost of memory care services in Delaware varies by location and facility type. Here are the average costs for memory care across the state and in some of the largest cities in Delaware.

Delaware is a small state, so the selection of dementia care homes is limited, though quality never suffers. The entire state has less than one million in population, and its biggest city, Wilmington, only houses a little under 71,000. Consequently, sometimes it is hard to find the appropriate memory care facility, so it bodes well to do a little extra research and ask around.

The cities of Dover, Newark and Middletown, are good places to begin. Along with Wilmington, these are bigger cities with the best selection of Alzheimer's care facilities. Ask about Medicare, as some dementia care services may be covered partially or in their entirety depending on the provider.

Affording Delaware Dementia Care Community Admission

Delaware may be one of the states with the most cost-effective memory care, but a little help is always welcome, especially if you are looking to finance a family member's long-term care. You may want to look into these programs.

• Delaware Optional State Supplementation Program
  • Eligibility: Delaware residents who are over 65, as well as adults with disabilities who do not need a nursing home level of care are eligible for this program. Applicants must also meet the financial criteria that the federal SSI program has set. However, the state may consider people who meet all the requirements but exceed the federal SSI income threshold.
• Medicare Advantage Plans
  • Eligibility: Senior Delaware residents who are enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B are eligible to make the switch to this program to cover part of their memory care and long-term care expenses, including that of the UnitedHealthcare Assisted Living Plan.

Additional options that may help you afford Delaware’s dementia care home expenses include reverse mortgages, long-term care insurance, life insurance, and veterans’ benefits.

Moving to a Memory Care Home in Delaware

The Alzheimer's Association identifies dementia as an umbrella term that refers to severe memory loss, usually resulting from a disease like Alzheimer's. Unlike a traumatic head injury, the symptoms of dementia also include loss of language, problem-solving, and thinking abilities. The loss of these capabilities causes major disruptions to the person's daily life and functioning.

Data from the Alzheimer's Association shows that 5.8 million Americans had Alzheimer's last year. Although the disease has a high concentration in seniors, younger people have it too. 5.6 million of the affected are Americans 65 years old and above while the remaining 200,000 are younger than 65. This data illustrates that one out of ten people in the country have Alzheimer's or dementia and this number is expected to grow by up to 13.8% in 2050. This highlights two important facts: one, that the number of Alzheimer's and dementia cases are steadily increasing due to an aging population, and two, that there is a need for high-quality memory care today and in the foreseeable future.

Currently, a large number of people with dementia either live on their own or with family. But as memory care communities became more accessible and affordable throughout the U.S. including the state of Delaware, the number of residents moving to dementia care homes is steadily increasing.

In deciding whether relocation to an Alzheimer's care facility in Delaware is necessary, you should consider a few things: behavioral changes in your loved one, the state of their health, their safety and security, your capability to meet their needs, and your own mental and physical well-being as their primary caregiver.

The early stages of Alzheimer's are difficult to detect as people attribute them to simple forgetfulness or an inability to pay attention. But as the disease progresses, lapses in memory become worse. People living with dementia who are usually punctual with paying their bills may start missing payments because they either do not remember if they paid their bill or may not remember how money and paying bills work. Feelings of helplessness and frustration set in as daily living becomes a herculean quest.

In addition to frustration and anxiety, people with Alzheimer's will experience confusion and disorientation as the disease progresses. This is particularly dangerous as they may lose their way home or do things that may put them at extreme risk, like forgetting to turn off the stove, or ignoring traffic rules.

Forgetting daily living tasks is not just an issue of convenience; it is also an issue of health. A person with Alzheimer's may forget to eat, drink, and take their medication or inadvertently take more than the prescribed dosage. If your loved one has daily medicines prescribed to regulate blood sugar levels, cholesterol, and the like, forgetting to take their medication can cause a whole new set of health problems.

Alzheimer's latter stages involve loss of function and even mobility. This part of the disease's progression means that your role and responsibility as the primary caregiver would increase substantially which might also require that you put your own life on hold too. From feeding and bathing to continued supervision and even dealing with incontinence or mood swings, how prepared are you to handle that level of care?

Lastly, you have to reassess where you are mentally and physically. Caring for a loved one should not mean that you let go of your watching out for your own health. If your health deteriorates, then how can you take care of your loved one? Ask yourself these questions:

• Are you neglecting your responsibilities to yourself and to your other family members?
• Do you feel like you can no longer connect with family and friends?
• Are you ignoring your health and needs?
• As a caregiver, are you becoming more irritable and impatient?
• Do you feel like you can no longer keep up with your loved one's needs?

If 'yes' is your answer to any or all of these, then you might want to find a memory care community for your loved one in the state of Delaware.

Caring for a person with dementia is not a 'you-or-me' situation. You can find a healthy middle ground where you can give your family member the appropriate care they need, while working on getting your life back.

Memory Care Facilities Compared to Assisted Living Facilities in Delaware

Assisted living homes are institutions where seniors, people with disabilities, and those who have special needs can live in and have the support and care they need while moving freely. In addition to meals, boarding, and ancillary services, assisted living facilities may organize community functions to encourage residents to socialize.

It is important to note that assisted living facilities are unregulated by the federal government. This may leave gaps for inconsistencies in care quality, facility maintenance, amenities available, and community management. Furthermore, not all assisted living facilities are equipped to care for people requiring memory care.

On the other hand, Delaware memory care homes are facilities that specialize in giving care to people with dementia. These communities also provide housing, meals, and support services. They also offer behavioral health services, directed care, personal care, supervisory care, memory care-specific treatment, individual and group therapies supervision, and ancillary services.

Delaware's Department of Health and Social Services and the Division of Long-Term Care Resident Protection are responsible for licensing dementia care facilities in Delaware. They also monitor registered Delaware memory care homes every year through a surprise check or pre-scheduled survey to check if patients receive quality care whether the facility is maintained well, and if everything in the community is done in compliance with the regulations set by the state and the department.

Memory Care vs Dementia Care in Delaware

In Delaware, both memory care and dementia care refer to specialized care services designed to assist individuals suffering from memory impairments, including Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. However, while the terms are often used interchangeably, there are subtle differences in their focus and scope. Understanding these distinctions can help families make informed decisions about care options for their loved ones.

Memory Care in Delaware

Memory care is a type of long-term care specifically tailored for individuals who have memory-related conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease or other types of dementia. Memory care units are typically housed within assisted living facilities or nursing homes, and they offer a higher level of care and supervision than general residential living environments. These facilities are designed to create a safe and secure environment for residents who may have difficulty remembering daily tasks, such as taking medication, eating, or personal hygiene.

In Delaware, memory care facilities are equipped with features like secured entrances and exits, to prevent wandering, and specially trained staff who are knowledgeable about the needs of individuals with memory disorders. Additionally, memory care programs often include structured activities that promote cognitive function, socialization, and a sense of routine, helping to improve quality of life and reduce agitation. Staff members may also assist with daily living activities, such as dressing, bathing, and eating.

Dementia Care in Delaware

Dementia care, while similar to memory care, is a broader term that encompasses a range of specialized services for individuals living with various forms of dementia. Dementia itself refers to a group of symptoms affecting memory, thinking, and social abilities severely enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, but there are other types, such as vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia, each with different care requirements.

In Delaware, dementia care facilities offer services designed to manage the complex symptoms associated with different types of dementia. These facilities often provide a more individualized care plan, addressing not just memory loss, but also behavioral issues, mood changes, and other cognitive impairments that may arise. Dementia care can be provided in a variety of settings, including nursing homes, specialized dementia care units, and residential care homes. In these settings, the care team may include nurses, social workers, physical therapists, and psychologists, who collaborate to ensure that each person’s unique needs are met.

Key Differences

The main difference between memory care and dementia care lies in the scope of care. Memory care focuses specifically on individuals with memory loss, whereas dementia care addresses the broader range of cognitive impairments that come with different types of dementia.

• Memory Care: Primarily addresses memory loss, with a focus on ensuring safety, routine, and cognitive stimulation. It is often appropriate for those in the early to mid-stages of Alzheimer’s disease or other memory-related conditions.
• Dementia Care: Involves a more comprehensive approach that includes managing a wider array of symptoms associated with dementia, such as behavioral changes, communication difficulties, and mobility issues. It is suitable for individuals in various stages of dementia.

Choosing the Right Care Option in Delaware

For families in Delaware, choosing between memory care and dementia care often depends on the severity of the person’s condition and the types of care they need. Memory care may be appropriate for someone with mild to moderate cognitive decline who mainly requires support with memory and daily living activities. On the other hand, dementia care may be more appropriate for individuals who need a higher level of medical supervision and assistance due to more complex symptoms, such as aggressive behavior, significant mobility issues, or incontinence.

When considering care options, it's important to visit different facilities, inquire about the qualifications of staff members, and assess whether the care environment matches the needs of the individual. In Delaware, both memory care and dementia care facilities must adhere to state regulations regarding staffing, safety, and care standards, so prospective residents and their families can be assured that they will receive quality, compassionate care.

Security Measures in Memory Care Facilities in Delaware

Memory care facilities in Delaware implement a variety of security measures designed to protect residents with cognitive impairments, such as Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. These measures ensure the safety and well-being of individuals who may have difficulty remembering instructions or recognizing potentially dangerous situations. Below are the key security measures commonly found in memory care facilities in Delaware:

1. Secure Entrances and Exits

Memory care facilities are equipped with secure entrances and exits to prevent residents from wandering outside the facility unnoticed. These facilities use controlled access systems, such as keycard entry or biometric scanners, to ensure that only authorized personnel or family members can enter. Additionally, many facilities have alarm systems on doors and windows that alert staff if a resident attempts to leave the premises without assistance. This helps prevent wandering, which is a significant concern in dementia care.

2. Wandering Prevention

Wandering is a common behavior among people with dementia, and preventing it is a critical aspect of memory care facility design. In addition to secure entrances and exits, memory care units often have hallways designed to reduce confusion and minimize the likelihood of residents wandering. Some facilities use electronic tracking devices, such as wristbands or ankle bracelets, which trigger alarms if a resident leaves a designated area. These devices help staff quickly locate and assist residents who may be at risk of wandering.

3. Surveillance Systems

Video surveillance is widely used in memory care facilities to monitor both the interior and exterior of the facility. Surveillance cameras are strategically placed in common areas, hallways, and around entrances to ensure staff can monitor resident activities and ensure safety. These cameras are often used in conjunction with motion detectors, which alert staff when unusual movement is detected, especially during nighttime hours when fewer staff members may be on duty.

4. Staff Training and Awareness

Security in memory care facilities goes beyond physical infrastructure; staff training is crucial to ensuring a secure environment. Employees are trained to recognize the signs of distress or confusion in residents and are educated on best practices for dealing with challenging behaviors, such as aggression or resistance to care. Training also includes how to respond to emergencies, such as medical incidents or evacuations, to ensure that residents’ needs are met promptly and safely.

5. Environmental Design

Memory care facilities are often designed with safety and security in mind. The layout is typically simpler, with clear signage and distinct color schemes to help residents navigate the environment more easily. Doors and rooms are often color-coded to help residents identify their location. Furniture and fixtures are securely anchored to prevent accidents or injuries. The facility may also have enclosed outdoor spaces, which provide a safe environment for residents to enjoy fresh air while preventing them from wandering off the premises.

6. Emergency Response Systems

Memory care facilities in Delaware are equipped with comprehensive emergency response systems to ensure the swift protection and evacuation of residents in the event of a crisis. These systems include fire alarms, sprinkler systems, and emergency lighting, all of which are monitored regularly to ensure they are fully functional. Additionally, staff members are trained in evacuation procedures, including how to assist residents with mobility issues and those who may not fully understand the urgency of an evacuation.

7. Medication Management and Monitoring

Proper medication management is a vital part of security in memory care facilities. These facilities have strict protocols to ensure residents receive the correct medications at the right times, and that medications are securely stored. Many facilities use electronic medication administration records (eMARs) to track prescriptions and avoid medication errors. Furthermore, staff members are trained to monitor for signs of medication side effects or interactions, ensuring that any health concerns are addressed promptly.

8. Visitor Protocols

To further enhance security, memory care facilities in Delaware implement strict visitor protocols. Visitors are required to sign in upon arrival and are often accompanied by staff while visiting residents, particularly in memory care units where residents may not recognize them. Some facilities may restrict visiting hours or require appointments for additional security. These measures help prevent unauthorized individuals from entering and ensure that residents are protected from potential harm.

9. Communication Systems

In many memory care facilities, residents and staff are equipped with communication systems that allow for quick and easy contact in case of an emergency. For instance, staff may carry portable devices that can send alerts to their colleagues in case a resident needs immediate attention or is in danger. Residents may also have access to emergency call buttons in their rooms or common areas, allowing them to summon assistance if needed.

10. Social and Recreational Programs

While not strictly a security measure, providing engaging social and recreational activities helps reduce the risk of distress and agitation in residents, which can lead to safety issues. Many memory care facilities in Delaware offer daily activities designed to engage residents’ cognitive abilities, reduce anxiety, and promote physical health. These programs create a sense of routine and stability, which can prevent restlessness and reduce the likelihood of wandering or other harmful behaviors.

Requirements for Admission to a Delaware Memory Care Community

Seniors, people living with dementia, and individuals with developmental, intellectual, and physical disabilities who reside in Delaware are eligible for admission in a Delaware dementia care home. Those with controlled behavioral issues and stable chronic illnesses may also be admitted. People who require assistance with daily living and those who require temporary or intermittent nursing care for no longer than 90 days are eligible for admission and retention in a memory care facility in Delaware.

On the other hand, those who are bedridden and require permanent, round-the-clock nursing care, such as those on ventilators or with unstable medical conditions, may not be admitted. Those who show socially inappropriate behavior and pose as a danger to themselves and people around them are also barred from admission.

Choosing a Dementia Care Home in Delaware

But before zeroing in on the right Delaware memory care community for your loved one, get in touch with their management through email, phone call, or even a visit. We suggest visiting a couple of such facilities before deciding which one works best for you and your loved one. A community tour lets you see the environment and assess if that memory care home is the right choice.

Some questions you may consider asking during your visit:

• Are families involved in the care planning?
• Are families allowed to participate in the care of their loved ones?
• How are changes in a loved one's health condition or care needs communicated to the families?
• Who can families contact for updates and inquiries?
• Are medical, personal care, and assistance available?
• Are there physicians and registered nurses in the community?
• If there are in-house medical staff available, and if not, how often do physicians and nurses visit?
• Are the staff members qualified to give dementia care?
• What is the procedure should a resident need to go to the hospital?
• What is the resident to staff ratio, and what is the fall rate?
• Are living spaces big enough for residents to move freely?
• Can new residents bring personal belongings?
• Are bathrooms age-appropriate and accessible?
• Is the place easy to navigate and accessible?
• Is there enough indoor and outdoor space?
• Do they encourage socialization and a healthy lifestyle?
• When can families visit their loved ones, and is there a designated visitation area?
• Are families allowed to enter their loved one's living space?
• Do they have registered nutritionist on board?
• Can they meet special dietary needs?
• What are the discharge policies?
• Is continuing care and aging in place possible in the community?

Delaware Memory Care Amenities

The amenities provided at dementia care homes in Delaware are dependent on location, price, and what other services (if any) are offered. For example, some Alzheimer's care homes are located in a ward that is a branch of a traditional nursing home or assisted living center. On different occasions, the senior living center is 100 percent dedicated to dementia and Alzheimer's care.

Regardless of the facility, dedicated Alzheimer's care homes in Delaware provide the same trademark health services as the rest of the northeast. Some of the best doctors and nurses live and work in this part of the U.S., so service is second to none.

The skilled staff serves your loved one with the ultimate care and kindness. Personal privacy is respected as much as possible, and patients are treated with dignity and respect. Staff members understand how devastating dementia and Alzheimer's can be, and thus seek to restore their identity and vitality.

Along with being served well-balanced, nutritional meals each day, activities and group participation are encouraged to help keep the mind sharp.

Here's a more detailed look at common amenities available to families looking for memory care in Delaware:

1. Safe and Secure Environments

Memory care facilities in Delaware are equipped with secure, enclosed areas to prevent residents from wandering. These secure settings are crucial for individuals with dementia, who may become disoriented or confused. Many facilities utilize advanced monitoring systems, such as motion sensors or security cameras, to further ensure safety while allowing residents the freedom to move around their living spaces.

2. Trained and Specialized Staff

Delaware memory care facilities typically employ staff members who are trained in dementia care. These professionals are skilled in recognizing the unique needs of individuals with memory loss and are equipped to manage behavioral challenges, provide emotional support, and assist with daily tasks. In many cases, staff members receive ongoing training to stay updated on the latest research and caregiving techniques for memory-related conditions.

3. Personalized Care Plans

Each resident in a Delaware memory care facility often has a personalized care plan developed by a team of healthcare professionals. This plan takes into account the individual's medical history, cognitive abilities, personal preferences, and family input. These tailored care plans ensure that residents receive the right level of support, whether it’s assistance with bathing, dressing, or medication management.

4. Therapeutic and Engaging Activities

To stimulate cognitive function and enhance well-being, memory care communities in Delaware offer a wide range of activities designed to engage residents. These can include memory exercises, arts and crafts, music therapy, pet therapy, gardening, and physical fitness programs. Such activities help improve residents’ mental health, reduce anxiety, and foster social connections among peers.

5. In-Room and Common Area Features

Memory care facilities in Delaware are designed with specialized features to accommodate the needs of residents with cognitive decline. This includes easy-to-navigate layouts, clear signage, and rooms equipped with memory aids, such as large clocks, calendars, and photo albums to help with orientation. In addition, communal areas like dining rooms and activity centers are often structured to create a familiar and non-overwhelming atmosphere.

6. Medical and Health Services

Many memory care facilities in Delaware offer access to a variety of medical services, including 24-hour nursing care, medication management, physical therapy, and mental health counseling. Some facilities collaborate with local hospitals and healthcare providers to ensure residents have immediate access to medical care if needed.

7. Family Support and Education

Recognizing that family members are key to a resident’s well-being, Delaware’s memory care communities often offer support groups, educational seminars, and resources for families. These services help caregivers navigate the challenges of dementia care, providing emotional support, education about the disease, and advice on how to engage with their loved one effectively.

8. Culinary Services and Nutrition

Memory care facilities in Delaware place great importance on providing nutritious and appealing meals tailored to the needs of residents with dementia. Many facilities offer specialized diets, such as low-sodium or diabetic-friendly options, and accommodate dietary preferences. Dining areas are designed to be comfortable and inviting, and staff often provide assistance with eating for residents who need help.

9. Socialization and Community Building

Maintaining social connections is essential for residents in memory care. Delaware facilities often organize group outings, family events, and community celebrations that promote interaction among residents and their families. These opportunities foster a sense of belonging and can improve residents’ emotional and psychological well-being.

10. Memory Enhancement Programs

Some memory care centers in Delaware offer memory enhancement programs designed to slow cognitive decline and maintain mental function. These programs may include cognitive therapies, brain exercises, and digital tools that stimulate memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. Residents may also participate in reminiscence therapy, which encourages them to recall and discuss past experiences to enhance their cognitive engagement.

Resources on Dementia and Delaware Memory Care

Should you need more help understanding dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and the care that a loved one living with the disease requires, below are some resources that may help you.

• Alzheimer's Impact Movement – Delaware
• Delaware Prescription Assistance Program
• Delaware Aging and Disability Resource Center
• Alzheimer's Association – Delaware Valley Chapter