Florida Memory Care Facilities

Despite being one of the most sought-after states in the nation for senior living, Florida remains impressively affordable. In fact, prices for dementia care in Florida rank within the Top 10 cheapest across the U.S. It is impossible to beat the quality, affordability, pleasant weather, and exclusive communities dedicated to all types of Florida senior living - independent living communities, assisted living, nursing homes and dementia care homes.

Statistically, Florida ranks sixth in terms of being the most affordable for dementia care and Alzheimer’s. Mississippi, Louisiana, Arkansas and West Virginia are the only southern states with cheaper rates, while Alabama and South Carolina rank just behind Florida.

So, while the southern U.S. is generally considered the most affordable for memory care communities, what separates Florida is the high demand. Many seniors want to live here, yet thanks to the abundance of Alzheimer’s care homes, there are rarely any waiting lists or extremely stiff competition.

The Cost of Memory Care Facilities in Florida

The average cost for dementia care in any part of the United States is approximately $160 per day. Compared to Florida Alzheimer’s care facilities, which cost on average $170 per day, families of loved ones dealing with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia can expect to pay slightly more.

The cost of memory care services in Florida can vary significantly depending on location, facility quality, and the level of care needed. On average, memory care in Florida costs around $5,100 per month for a private room. However, costs may differ across various cities, reflecting the local demand for services and the overall cost of living in the area. Below is a table that provides the average monthly costs of memory care across 20 of the largest cities in Florida.

Summary of Costs

Across Florida, the cost for memory care generally ranges from $4,600 to $5,400 per month, with the average cost in the state being $5,100. Larger cities like Miami and Fort Lauderdale tend to have higher costs, reflecting the higher cost of living and demand for specialized care. Meanwhile, smaller cities like Gainesville and Tallahassee offer more affordable options, with monthly rates closer to the lower end of the range.

Affordable Florida memory care homes are located throughout the state. Some reported rates go for as little as $140 per day.

However, it wouldn’t be Florida, without high-end, luxurious memory care communities as well. Some rooms can go for $200 or more per day, with a few reports in the $250+ per day price range. These units generally provide more amenities and hands on dementia care. Sometimes, the care homes are exclusive to dementia care and house no other types of seniors.

Based on population, these communities offer some of the highest selections and most variety of dementia care: Miami, Tampa and St. Petersburg area, Orlando, Jacksonville, Sarasota and Bradenton area, Cape Coral and Fort Myers, and Palm Bay and Melbourne. Some of the small, exclusive communities in the Key Largo area are especially nice but expensive. The most affordable Florida memory care homes are more inland, or in the bigger cities.

Florida Memory Care - Amenities

Florida memory care facilities seek to restore dignity and vitality to loved ones struggling with Alzheimer’s and dementia, known for ravaging self-identity and preventing daily functioning.

Assistance with day to day activities like bathing, using the restroom, getting dressed and other hygiene activities is offered to make for a more comfortable, relaxing living environment for residents with Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Extra security measures are installed and observed to prevent wandering or patients getting lost. GPS monitoring or other helpful markers like color-coded walls and directions can help senior citizens feel safe and secure in their new living circumstances.

These facilities offer various amenities to create a safe, comfortable, and engaging environment for those affected by cognitive decline. In more detail, these amenities consist of:

1. Safe and Secure Environments

One of the key features of memory care in Florida is ensuring a safe, secure environment for residents. Facilities often have secure, locked entrances and exits to prevent wandering, which is a common issue for those with Alzheimer's or dementia. Many locations use state-of-the-art security systems, including surveillance cameras and emergency response technology, to monitor residents' safety 24/7.

2. Personalized Care Plans

Memory care amenities in Florida often focus on individualized care. Upon admission, a thorough assessment is conducted to develop a personalized care plan tailored to the specific needs of each resident. This can include assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, eating, and medication management. Personal care is designed to address the physical, emotional, and social needs of the individual.

3. Specialized Staff Training

Florida's memory care facilities often employ staff who are specially trained in dementia care. Staff members are knowledgeable about memory loss, behavioral symptoms, and the communication challenges associated with cognitive decline. Many facilities provide ongoing training to ensure their teams are up-to-date on the latest care practices, therapeutic activities, and person-centered approaches to dementia care.

4. Therapeutic and Stimulating Activities

Engagement and mental stimulation are critical for those with memory loss, and Florida memory care facilities are known for offering a variety of activities aimed at enhancing cognitive function and providing enjoyment. These activities may include:

• Memory-enhancing games: Puzzles, board games, and activities that stimulate memory recall.
• Art and music therapy: Residents often engage in creative outlets, such as painting, music, and dance, which can improve mood and cognitive function.
• Physical exercise: Many facilities offer low-impact exercise programs like chair yoga, walking groups, and other fitness activities designed to enhance physical and mental well-being.

These activities are typically customized based on individual abilities and preferences to encourage participation while reducing feelings of isolation or frustration.

5. Spacious and Comfortable Living Areas

The living spaces in memory care facilities are designed with comfort and ease of access in mind. Florida facilities typically feature well-lit, spacious rooms with layouts that reduce confusion. Common areas are designed to be welcoming and are often filled with cozy seating, calming colors, and familiar, home-like decor to help create a relaxed atmosphere.

Outdoor spaces, such as gardens or secure courtyards, are also common in Florida memory care facilities. These areas provide residents with safe places to enjoy the fresh air, engage in outdoor activities, or simply relax in a serene environment.

6. Cognitive and Sensory Stimulation

To further enhance quality of life, memory care facilities in Florida often incorporate cognitive and sensory stimulation techniques. This can include the use of specialized tools, like interactive touch screens or devices that promote cognitive exercises, as well as sensory rooms or environments designed to stimulate sight, sound, and touch in a controlled, therapeutic way.

7. Family Support Services

Florida memory care facilities recognize the importance of family involvement in the care process. Many facilities offer support services for family members, such as counseling, educational programs, and respite care options. Family members are encouraged to participate in their loved one’s care through regular updates, meetings with care teams, and involvement in activities designed to improve bonding and communication.

8. Dining and Nutrition Services

Memory care facilities in Florida emphasize nutritious, well-balanced meals that cater to the unique dietary needs of individuals with memory conditions. Many facilities provide meals tailored to meet specific dietary restrictions (e.g., low-sodium, diabetic-friendly, or gluten-free). Meals are often served in a communal dining area where residents can socialize, and staff are available to assist with eating, if necessary.

9. Access to Healthcare Services

Access to on-site healthcare services is another vital amenity in Florida’s memory care facilities. Residents may have regular visits from healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, physical therapists, and speech therapists, who specialize in the care of individuals with memory impairments. These services help manage co-existing conditions, adjust medications, and ensure ongoing physical and mental health monitoring.

10. Pet Therapy and Social Interaction

Many memory care facilities in Florida offer pet therapy, where trained therapy animals visit residents to provide comfort, companionship, and emotional support. Interaction with animals has been shown to reduce stress and improve cognitive function. Additionally, group activities and social events are common to foster a sense of community among residents and encourage social interaction, which is crucial for maintaining mental well-being.

Memory Care Admission Requirements in Florida

Florida imposes detailed requirements before a senior with dementia gets admitted to a memory care facility. In this state, for a resident to be admitted to an assisted living facility including in special care units, he or she would need to meet several requirements.

Note that a Memory Care Home is considered as a special care unit in the state of Florida.

• Should be minimum of 18 years old
• Must have some form of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
• Does not exhibit symptoms of any kind of contagious disease
• Can perform activities of daily living with supervision or assistance (Examples of activities of daily living are: grooming, bathing, eating, etc.)
• Can take medication with or without help
• Does not require 24/7 care from a mental health specialist
• Does not require nursing needs like assistance with feeding tubes or draining tubes
• Must not be restricted to a bed
• Must not have any pressure sores in severity level stage 3 or 4

The resident should undergo a preliminary physical examination between 60 days before the admission date to 30 days after being admitted.

A physical exam would be performed every 3 years to ensure that the residents are meeting the requirements of the facilities in Florida.

Memory Care Regulations

Facility

In Florida, Memory Care Homes must be constructed safely and the overall wellness of residents with neurological conditions must be considered. While it is not explicitly specified what this involves, most Florida Memory care homes have an enclosed outdoor area. This is obviously to keep the residents from wandering away and getting lost. Additionally, facilities are required to create a recreational plan that is geared towards their dementia residents. Staff is required 24/7.

Staff and Training

As part of the pre-employment checklist, an applicant needs to undergo a background investigation that includes a fingerprint check by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.

The training is variable to the position and the services that are provided but all employees complete an orientation and a core training before interacting with the residents. The basic learning session covers topics about the needs and safety of the residents including the best way to handle common situations. The length of the training is a minimum of 2 hours.  

Administration

The facility is required to have an administrator to oversee it. For this role, one must have taken and completed a 26-hour training curriculum that covers a lot of subjects including training on dementia. After the training, the aspiring administrator needs to pass a test.

Employees that are working and interacting with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders (shortened as ADRD in Florida) must complete the appropriate training. Staff who have contact with residents with ADRD but are not directly responsible for assisting must complete a 4-hours training about dementia. This should be completed within the first three months of employment.

Personnel that directly takes care of an ADRD resident must complete 4-more hours of additional training. This needs to be completed within nine months of their employment.

For Memory Care Homes that have a minimum of 17 occupants, it is mandatory that a personnel trained in CPR is on duty 24/7.

If the facility offers administration of medicines as one of its services, a licensed member of the staff shoulders the responsibility of giving the medicine as prescribed by the physician or as instructed on the medicine’s label. Other non-licensed employees can still oversee and assist any self-administration of medicines by able residents. Selected training is a requisite and involves an initial 6-hours training on medication assistance and 2 more hours of additional training every year.

Florida follows a minimum staff to resident ratio methodology, meaning the mandatory number of staff hours is grounded on the total number of residents.

When Is Your Loved One Ready for Memory Care?

The early stages of dementia can often still be managed at home but with the reality that it is a progressive syndrome. The cognitive skills will progressively decline and deteriorate and over time, your loved one won’t be able to manage themselves no matter how much they want it.

The progress of dementia is unique for every senior but there are tell-tale indicators that you can watch out for and from there, contemplate the readiness of your loved one for a memory care facility.

• Incontinence
  When a patient suffering from dementia loses their overall voluntary control, especially over their public health, the experience and feeling can be overwhelming and scary to them and also to their caregivers.  The constant change of clothing diapers and the much needed 24/7 care would then be required and trained professionals can step in and make the transition better.
• Safety at Risk
  Confusion and incomprehension are expected for dementia patients and as much as you want your loved one to just stay at home, there would be times that they might end up lost and not remembering the way home. They can forget general traffic rules and cross on a red light. If there have been incidents and times that your loved one’s safety has been put at risk and even those of other people, consider memory care in Florida.
• Failing Well-Being
  It is not just the physical condition that is changing but also the behavioral aspect. A person suffering from dementia gets these unpleasant experiences without warning and it leaves them anxious and fearful. Dementia causes them to feel lost triggering them to forget paying their bills, eating proper meals, and even taking their medication. If a family member cannot take on the role of ensuring that there is sufficient support for your senior’s health then asking help from well-trained caregivers is an option for you.

If you do not have the support required from other family members in taking care of a senior with Alzheimer’s or dementia and in providing them the needed support and safe environment, it’s best to prioritize getting assistance that is tailored to their necessities.

Making a final determination as to when someone with dementia should transition to memory care in Florida depends on many factors related to the severity of the individual's condition and the level of care they require. Memory care is a specialized form of long-term care that focuses on providing a safe, structured environment and assistance tailored to those with dementia-related diseases like Alzheimer's. Here are key considerations for when to consider memory care:

1. Safety Concerns

One of the primary reasons for transitioning to memory care is safety. As dementia progresses, individuals may experience wandering, confusion, and difficulty with daily activities like bathing, eating, or taking medication. If a person is at risk of getting lost, becoming disoriented, or encountering hazardous situations (such as using the stove unsupervised), memory care can offer a secure, monitored environment where they are less likely to be exposed to such dangers.

2. Increased Care Needs

As dementia advances, the level of care required often increases. If the person with dementia can no longer manage activities of daily living (ADLs) independently, such as grooming, dressing, or using the bathroom, it may be time to consider memory care. In Florida, memory care facilities provide round-the-clock assistance with these activities, which can be difficult for family members to manage on their own, particularly as the condition progresses.

3. Caregiver Burnout

Family caregivers may experience physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion from trying to provide care without adequate support. If the caregiver is unable to maintain their own health or well-being due to the demands of caregiving, it might be time to consider a memory care facility. Memory care staff are trained to handle the unique challenges of dementia care, alleviating the burden on family members and ensuring the person with dementia receives specialized attention.

4. Behavioral Changes

Dementia often causes individuals to experience significant mood swings, aggression, or other behavioral changes that can be difficult to manage in a home setting. If the individual becomes combative, shows signs of extreme paranoia, or has frequent outbursts, memory care may provide the structured environment needed to help manage these behaviors. Staff are trained in managing challenging behaviors while maintaining dignity and respect for the individual.

5. Socialization and Stimulation

People with dementia may become isolated, losing interest in activities or relationships they once enjoyed. Memory care facilities often provide structured activities, social engagement, and therapeutic programs designed to stimulate cognitive function and improve quality of life. If a person is no longer engaging with others or seems withdrawn, moving to a memory care facility can provide opportunities for social interaction, which is vital for their well-being.

6. Declining Health

If the person with dementia experiences significant physical decline or additional health issues (such as difficulty eating, frequent falls, or incontinence), memory care facilities in Florida can provide the medical supervision and physical support necessary. Many memory care facilities have staff trained to manage both cognitive and physical health, ensuring the person's overall well-being is maintained.

7. Inability to Manage Medication

As dementia progresses, it becomes increasingly difficult for individuals to manage their medications correctly. If medication errors occur frequently or if there's concern that the person is not adhering to prescribed treatment plans, memory care can provide the necessary support to ensure medications are administered on time and properly.

8. Legal and Financial Considerations

In some cases, individuals with dementia may be unable to make important decisions about their own care, finances, or legal matters. If they can no longer manage these responsibilities, a transition to memory care may be necessary, both for their protection and for the protection of their assets. Additionally, in Florida, there may be legal considerations around guardianship and the power of attorney that could influence the decision to move to memory care.

9. Stage of Dementia

The stage of dementia plays a significant role in the decision to transition to memory care. In the early stages, individuals may be able to live independently with some support, but as the disease progresses to the middle and late stages, memory care becomes increasingly important. At these stages, the individual may need more intensive care, including supervision for eating, mobility, and managing behavioral changes. In Florida, many memory care communities are equipped to handle all stages of dementia, from early to late, providing continuous care as the individual’s needs evolve.

The decision of moving a loved one with dementia to a memory care facility in the state of Florida is personal and very hard but if left without due attention and urgency, the situation may escalate for the worst.

Questions to Ask Memory Care Communities During a Tour?

Exploring a memory care facility can help you be more confident in making the correct decision. You’ll want the transfer to be as seamless as possible and assured that you are providing a safe and comfortable environment for your loved one. It is not just reassurance for yourself but also to your loved one.

It is best to list down your concerns and communicate openly with the facility’s personnel. Create a relationship with them where you can freely express your sentiments, get your questions answered and your anxiety assured.

Here are some questions that you can refer to but as you go along, clarify and verify as needed.

1. How does the memory care facility communicate with the resident’s family so they can be updated with the resident’s well-being? How often does the update happen?
2. What level and extent of care does the memory care community provide?
3. Are all community workers trained and ready to care for dementia patients?
4. How secured is the community and how is the security of the premises ensured?
5. What level of individual support can the resident expect?
6. Are the rooms private or shared? What is the price difference for each?
7. What are the inclusions of the monthly rate?
8. What happens in case of a medical emergency?
9. What are the activities you have for the community? Is there a unique program for every resident?
10. What is the resident to staff/caregiver ratio?

Some of these questions might already be answered in the hand-outs or even on the facility’s website but there is nothing wrong with asking and wanting to learn more.

Memory Care vs Florida Assisted Living

In the Sunshine State, assisted living accommodations provide an almost home-like environment for loved ones including seniors and individuals with disabilities and those unable to live independently.

Florida’s assisted living residences aim to provide a comfortable environment with room and board included as well as personal and/or nursing services. Ready help with activities of daily living or ADLs like dressing, bathing, walking, and getting from the chair and bed are given.

Support is also extended should the resident need help in social activities, arranging transportation, supervision, and scheduling appointments. Other activities that require supervision or guidance may also be extended at an extra cost above the monthly regular fees.

Assisted living facilities that are intended and manned especially for people who have Alzheimer’s are formally referred to as a Special Care Unit or SCU.

It is a legal reference though in the common term, these Special Care Units are referred to as Memory Care Homes.

Memory Care Homes in Florida vary from the traditional aided living in a lot of ways. The difference starts with increased supervision and security. Given the profile and nature of its population, it is only expected that every resident of the facility is always accounted for.  

Aside from the increased safety that is imposed, there is also more staff training and recreational activities for the residents. As expected, the cost is also higher in Memory Care Homes in Florida. But the benefits and the satisfaction that comes from knowing a loved one is well cared for, far outweigh the cost.

Memory Care vs Dementia Care in Florida

When considering care options for individuals with cognitive decline in Florida, it’s essential to understand the differences between memory care and dementia care. Both types of care aim to support individuals who have cognitive impairments, but they have distinct focuses, treatment approaches, and specialized care techniques.

Memory Care

Memory care is a type of senior living facility or program that focuses on individuals with memory loss, including conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. In Florida, memory care communities are typically designed with safety and comfort in mind, offering a secure environment where residents can safely navigate the space while receiving specialized support. These communities often feature structured routines, therapies, and activities aimed at improving cognitive function or slowing the progression of memory loss.

Key Features of Memory Care:

• Personalized care plans: Memory care facilities in Florida develop individualized care plans tailored to each resident’s needs. These plans are designed to address cognitive, physical, and emotional well-being.
• Security and safety: Memory care units are equipped with security systems to prevent wandering, a common behavior among individuals with severe memory loss.
• Trained staff: Caregivers in memory care facilities are trained to handle specific challenges related to memory loss, ensuring that residents receive compassionate care.
• Cognitive stimulation: Programs like reminiscence therapy, brain games, and social activities help engage residents and promote cognitive health.
• Medication management: Memory care units provide assistance with medication administration and monitoring for side effects or adverse reactions.

Dementia Care

Dementia care is a broader term that refers to specialized care for individuals diagnosed with any form of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and Lewy body dementia. While memory care can be seen as a subset of dementia care, dementia care encompasses a wider range of services tailored to people in varying stages of dementia. In Florida, dementia care facilities often cater to residents with more advanced symptoms, including those who may require additional medical care.

Key Features of Dementia Care:

• Comprehensive medical care: Dementia care facilities in Florida provide a higher level of medical attention, often working with neurologists and specialists to manage co-occurring health conditions.
• Therapeutic interventions: Dementia care includes therapies such as music therapy, art therapy, and physical therapy to support emotional and physical health.
• Behavior management: People with advanced dementia may exhibit challenging behaviors such as aggression or sundowning. Dementia care units are designed to provide a calm and supportive environment to manage these behaviors.
• Advanced stages of care: Facilities offering dementia care are prepared to handle individuals in all stages of dementia, from early stages where memory loss may be minimal to later stages where assistance with daily activities and health care may be needed.

Differences Between Memory Care and Dementia Care

• Focus and scope: Memory care specifically addresses memory loss, typically in individuals who have mild to moderate symptoms. Dementia care, on the other hand, covers a wider range of cognitive impairments and is often used for individuals in the later stages of dementia.
• Level of medical care: While both types of care may provide some level of medical attention, dementia care generally offers more robust health management due to the broader needs of dementia patients.
• Care team training: Staff in both memory care and dementia care are trained in managing cognitive issues, but dementia care staff may receive more advanced training in handling severe dementia-related behaviors and medical conditions.

Choosing Between Memory Care and Dementia Care in Florida

When deciding between memory care and dementia care for a loved one in Florida, it's important to assess their level of cognitive impairment, medical needs, and safety concerns. Memory care might be appropriate for those in the early to middle stages of dementia who primarily need assistance with memory and daily living. Dementia care is ideal for individuals in the later stages who may require more specialized medical care, including assistance with mobility, managing aggressive behaviors, or medical conditions associated with dementia.

Florida offers numerous options for both memory care and dementia care, ranging from independent memory care communities to more intensive, medically focused dementia care facilities.

Security Measures in Memory Care Facilities in Florida

Memory care facilities in Florida, like those in many other states, have specific security measures in place to ensure the safety and well-being of residents, particularly individuals with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. These security protocols are designed to prevent wandering, ensure a safe environment, and address any potential medical or behavioral concerns that arise due to the nature of cognitive decline. Below is a detailed breakdown of common security measures in these facilities:

1. Secure Entrances and Exits

Memory care units in Florida are typically designed with secure, monitored entrances and exits to prevent residents from wandering outside unsupervised. These facilities often use controlled access systems, such as locked doors, keycards, or coded entry systems, to ensure that only authorized personnel or visitors can enter or exit the premises. Some facilities may also employ security systems that trigger alarms when a door is opened, alerting staff immediately.

2. Wandering Prevention Technology

Many memory care facilities implement wandering prevention systems to track and monitor residents who may be prone to wandering. One of the most common technologies used is a "wander management system," which involves wristbands or ankle bracelets worn by residents. These devices are connected to sensors placed on doors, gates, or hallways. If a resident approaches an exit or unauthorized area, an alarm will sound, notifying staff of the situation. This helps prevent residents from leaving the facility or entering dangerous areas without supervision.

3. Surveillance Cameras and Monitoring

To further enhance security, memory care facilities often use surveillance cameras to monitor both the interior and exterior of the building. These cameras are strategically placed to ensure that staff can monitor common areas, hallways, and entrances. While these cameras provide a layer of security, they are typically not used to infringe on residents’ privacy but rather to provide safety and ensure that help is available when needed.

4. Trained and Supervised Staff

Staff in memory care facilities are specially trained to deal with the needs of individuals with dementia. This includes understanding how to manage behaviors related to cognitive decline, as well as how to prevent accidents and other security risks. Staff members are often trained in emergency procedures, including how to respond to situations where a resident may try to wander or become agitated. Many facilities also ensure that there is a sufficient number of staff members on duty at all times to provide round-the-clock care and supervision.

5. Safe Outdoor Spaces

Outdoor areas in memory care facilities are often enclosed with high fences or walls to provide a secure environment where residents can safely enjoy fresh air without the risk of wandering off. These enclosed spaces are designed to allow residents to walk or participate in recreational activities while remaining supervised. The design typically includes pathways, seating, and garden areas to promote both physical and mental well-being.

6. Emergency Response Systems

Memory care facilities in Florida are equipped with emergency response systems that allow residents or staff to quickly alert others in case of an emergency. These systems often include emergency call buttons in residents' rooms, bathrooms, and common areas. Staff are trained to respond promptly to any emergencies, whether medical or behavioral, and the systems are typically integrated with local hospitals or emergency services for swift action when necessary.

7. Routine Risk Assessments and Safety Audits

To maintain a high level of security, memory care facilities regularly perform safety audits and risk assessments. This includes evaluating the physical layout of the facility, identifying potential hazards, and ensuring that all safety equipment is in working order. These assessments help facilities stay ahead of potential security threats or hazards, ensuring that residents remain safe from falls, accidents, or other dangers.

8. Visitor Screening

To control who enters and exits memory care facilities, visitor screening processes are commonly implemented. This may involve verifying the identity of visitors, ensuring they are authorized to visit specific residents, and possibly requiring a sign-in and sign-out process. Some facilities also limit visiting hours to ensure that the care environment remains stable and that residents are not exposed to unnecessary disruptions.

9. Personalized Care Plans

Each resident in a memory care facility typically has a personalized care plan that addresses their specific needs, behaviors, and health conditions. These plans help staff members understand potential security risks associated with individual residents and tailor their care approaches accordingly. This may involve strategies to mitigate aggressive behaviors, reduce the risk of falls, or ensure that residents with a history of wandering are more closely monitored.

10. Compliance with State and Federal Regulations

Memory care facilities in Florida must adhere to strict state and federal regulations to ensure the safety and care of residents. The Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) and other relevant bodies provide oversight to ensure that facilities are meeting required safety standards. These regulations address everything from building safety and staffing levels to the proper use of security technology.