Minnesota Memory Care Facilities

Minnesota is a beautiful state with really great, friendly people. As a result, many seniors decide to relocate to Minnesota in their retirement years. Along with great services in independent living communities and assisted living centers, Minnesota’s memory care facilities and assisted living homes are also in high demand. These facilities provide a great combination of caring, helpful staff, clean and comfortable rooms, nutritional meals, and several different amenities.

Memory care facilities in Minnesota are middle of the road in terms of price. They are neither expensive nor extremely inexpensive based on national averages. However, the categorization of affordability depends on location. If you consider the Minnesota part of the Midwest, then prices are higher than most of the surrounding areas. Yet if you align the state more with the northern west or west coast, Minnesota Alzheimer’s care homes and dementia care facilities are far more affordable.

Detailed Cost of Memory Care in Minnesota

Minnesota memory care homes sit right at the national average for Alzheimer’s care and dementia care pricing. With an average of $160 per day, or $4,800 per month, Minnesota memory care is very affordable, whether settling on an exclusive community for Alzheimer’s care or paying for a room or secured unit that is part of a bigger assisted living center or nursing home.

Affordable dementia care facilities in Minnesota operate through nursing homes, assisted living centers, as well as facilities that are 100 percent dedicated to Alzheimer’s treatment and service. Prices can dip below $120 per day, though most "affordable" Alzheimer’s care facilities range more in the $140 price range.

Expensive Minnesota Alzheimer’s care homes can exceed prices of $200 per day. Some of the more sought-after memory care communities, particularly in the twin cities of St. Paul and Minneapolis, have variable prices between $220 and $270 per day.

Cheaper costs for rooms in St. Paul and Minneapolis also exist in the metropolitan area that is home to more than three million people. The selection of high-quality dementia care facilities available throughout the state of Minnesota is most prominent here, though the communities of Rochester, Duluth, Bloomington, Plymouth and Maple Grove are also popular for assisted living. Even more rural towns exist throughout the large state if a slower, quieter style of living is desired.

The average cost of memory care in Minnesota is approximately $4,800 per month. Below is a breakdown of memory care costs in the 20 largest cities in the state.

The costs of memory care across Minnesota vary, with urban areas like Minneapolis, Saint Paul, and Plymouth experiencing higher costs. Rural cities such as Mankato and Duluth tend to have slightly lower costs, averaging around $4,700 to $4,800 per month. The variation is influenced by factors like the quality of facilities, location, and local demand for memory care services.

Minnesota Dementia Care - Amenities

Minnesota memory care communities are designed to provide an enriching environment that prioritizes both the emotional and physical well-being of residents. These facilities focus on creating a sense of belonging and security, offering ample opportunities for social engagement, stimulation, and personal connection. In the best dementia care homes across Minnesota, residents enjoy a well-rounded mix of daily activities aimed at promoting mental and physical health while maintaining individual dignity. These activities include everything from therapeutic exercises and cognitive games to arts and crafts, music therapy, gardening, and more. Each activity is tailored to help individuals maintain their independence for as long as possible, while also offering enjoyable, low-stress opportunities for relaxation and leisure.

Visitation with family and friends is highly encouraged, with flexible visiting hours that ensure loved ones can maintain close connections with residents. The importance of social interaction cannot be overstated in the treatment and management of Alzheimer's, dementia, and other memory-related diseases. Positive engagement with familiar people and social circles has been shown to reduce anxiety, encourage emotional stability, and support a sense of continuity and familiarity for residents.

Minnesota’s top memory care facilities understand the complex, multifaceted nature of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Staff members are trained to approach residents with patience, empathy, and understanding, recognizing that each individual’s experience with memory loss is unique. The best memory care communities in the state ensure that caregivers are not only skilled in assisting with physical care tasks such as bathing, eating, and helping with mobility, but are also emotionally equipped to support residents and their families through the ups and downs of dementia care.

Navigating the challenges of Alzheimer’s and dementia can be emotionally and physically draining for families, especially when a loved one may exhibit behaviors such as confusion, wandering, and forgetfulness. The compassionate staff at Minnesota memory care homes take on these burdens to help ease the strain on families. They provide round-the-clock assistance, ensuring that residents are comfortable, safe, and engaged in activities that foster both their personal growth and sense of well-being.

Additionally, memory care facilities in Minnesota often offer specialized therapies and care plans, customized to meet the unique needs of residents. This may include medication management, sensory stimulation therapies, memory-enhancing activities, and personalized care routines designed to support cognitive function and overall health. Many facilities also offer dietary planning, with meals designed to be both nutritious and easy to eat, ensuring residents’ physical health is maintained.

The peaceful, homelike atmosphere of these memory care homes helps reduce feelings of disorientation or fear that may come with advanced stages of dementia. Features like secure outdoor walking paths, well-designed living spaces that are easy to navigate, and cozy common areas provide comfort and safety, while maintaining a high standard of care.

For families seeking peace of mind, Minnesota memory care communities offer a holistic approach to dementia care, where each resident is treated with respect and the utmost care. This well-rounded approach to memory care ensures that both the physical and emotional needs of residents are met, making these homes an excellent choice for those looking for comprehensive, compassionate care.

Admission Requirements to Memory Care Facilities in Minnesota

Memory care facilities in Minnesota are officially classified as "housing with services establishments," which are designed to provide long-term care to individuals who require round-the-clock assistance, support, and/or nursing care. These facilities cater primarily to residents with cognitive impairments, including those with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia. Before being admitted, a potential resident must undergo a comprehensive pre-admission screening process. This screening evaluates the individual's care needs to ensure the facility can provide the necessary level of support, whether it is basic assistance or more intensive nursing care. The pre-admission process is essential in determining whether the facility is an appropriate fit for the individual's specific requirements, including the severity of their cognitive decline.

For individuals with Alzheimer’s or any other type of dementia, an important requirement is that they must be accompanied by a family member or designated representative during the pre-admission process. This person is responsible for providing detailed information to the facility's administrator about the individual’s stage of dementia or cognitive decline. This information should be based on an evaluation conducted by a professional healthcare provider, ensuring that the facility can tailor its services to meet the individual's particular needs. The involvement of a knowledgeable family member helps ensure the facility is adequately prepared to care for the resident and that the right level of care is provided.

Memory care facilities offer a broad range of services tailored specifically for those with memory loss, ensuring that all aspects of their daily lives are supported. These services typically include three primary components: meals, personal care assistance, and nursing care. Residents are provided with three meals a day, with accommodations made for special dietary needs as necessary. Additionally, facilities often provide laundry services and support with daily living activities such as bathing, grooming, dressing, and toileting. Nursing care is available for residents who require more intensive medical attention, including medication management, health monitoring, and other specialized medical services.

Beyond the basic daily care, memory care facilities also focus on enhancing the quality of life for their residents. Many facilities provide structured activities and social programs to promote cognitive engagement and physical activity, which can help slow the progression of dementia. These activities are designed to be both enjoyable and therapeutic, encouraging residents to maintain a level of independence while offering necessary support.

When evaluating a memory care facility for a loved one, family members are often in the best position to assess their relative’s needs. They can consider the individual’s personal preferences, the severity of their condition, and any specific care requirements. It is essential to choose a facility that not only meets medical needs but also provides a compassionate and nurturing environment that promotes the dignity and comfort of the resident. Furthermore, family members should ensure that the facility’s staffing levels, training, and resources align with the care needs of their loved one, providing peace of mind for both the resident and their family.

Memory Care vs Dementia Care in Minnesota

When considering care options for individuals with cognitive impairments, understanding the distinctions between memory care and dementia care is essential, especially in Minnesota, where the aging population is rapidly growing. Both types of care focus on supporting individuals with memory-related conditions, but they cater to different aspects of care and treatment.

Memory Care

Memory care refers to specialized care designed to support individuals who are experiencing memory loss or cognitive decline. It is typically provided in a secure and structured environment to help individuals maintain their daily routines and maximize their independence. Memory care programs focus on managing general memory-related issues, such as forgetfulness or difficulty concentrating, which can be caused by various conditions, including mild cognitive impairment, age-related memory loss, or early stages of dementia.

In Minnesota, memory care facilities are often equipped with features that help improve the quality of life for residents, such as:

• 24-hour supervision: Ensuring safety and preventing wandering.
• Structured activities: To help individuals with cognitive decline stay engaged and mentally active.
• Personalized care plans: Addressing individual needs, including assistance with daily activities like dressing, bathing, and eating.
• Trained staff: Specially trained caregivers who understand the challenges of memory loss.

Memory care is often offered in assisted living communities, but some standalone memory care units or facilities are dedicated solely to providing these services.

Dementia Care

Dementia care, on the other hand, is a more specialized form of care for individuals diagnosed with dementia. Dementia is an umbrella term that encompasses a variety of cognitive disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and Lewy body dementia. Dementia care addresses the more advanced stages of cognitive decline, where individuals may require more comprehensive support due to challenges with memory, communication, mobility, and daily functioning.

Dementia care facilities in Minnesota provide:

• Specialized medical care: Focused on managing the symptoms and progression of dementia, including medication management.
• Therapeutic interventions: Such as cognitive therapy, reminiscence therapy, and physical activities designed to maintain cognitive function and quality of life.
• Personal care services: Help with activities of daily living, including eating, personal hygiene, and mobility support.
• Family support: Including education and counseling for family members on how to manage the emotional and logistical challenges of caring for a loved one with dementia.

While all dementia care involves memory care, not all memory care is specifically designed for people with advanced dementia. Dementia care is more intensive and typically involves a higher level of support, especially as the disease progresses and symptoms become more pronounced.

Key Differences Between Memory Care and Dementia Care in Minnesota

• Level of care: Dementia care generally involves more intensive medical care and therapies, while memory care is more focused on supporting individuals with less advanced memory loss.
• Target population: Memory care can be for individuals with mild cognitive impairment or early stages of memory loss, while dementia care is specifically for those diagnosed with dementia and more severe cognitive impairment.
• Care approach: Dementia care often requires a more structured approach due to the complexities of the disease, such as behavioral symptoms and mobility issues, whereas memory care focuses more on maintaining cognitive function and daily routines.

Security in Minnesota Memory Care Units

Every memory care facility in Minnesota undergoes a survey performed by the state’s Department of Health to ensure that it complies with basic state and federal rules on housing and safety. The survey team includes a nurse, sanitarians, dietitians, and other disciplines as appropriate. They are all trained in methods for inspecting nursing homes.

For compliance with state rules, surveys are done every two years. For compliance with federal rules, surveys are annual. Most memory care facilities are required to comply with both.

The survey team tours the whole facility to review the services provided to residents and to check if safety measures are in place. They also observe the facility’s meal serving and medication administration methods. Meetings are also conducted with the administration and the staff.

Additionally, the survey team examines medical records of the residents and interviews them or their family members regarding the quality of the facility’s services.

Minnesota – Regulations for Memory Care Establishments

Minnesota requires housing with services establishments to meet requirements stated in the state’s statute covering such facilities. The framework outlines the services that must be offered, the providers allowed to offer the said services, and consumer protection and information. When these requirements are fulfilled, the Minnesota Department of Health will recognize and license an establishment as an assisted living facility.

Under Minnesota law, licensed facilities providing dementia or memory care include nursing facilities, housing with services establishments, home care agencies, and adult day services.

These residential facilities must demonstrate high quality capability in the following areas:
(1) resident satisfaction and quality of life, (2) clinical outcomes, (3) adequate direct care staffing, (4) retention of direct care staff, (5) use of temporary staff from external third party agencies, (6) proportion of beds in single dwelling units, and (7) findings from certification survey inspections.

Staffing and Training

The governing body of a licensed long-term care facility in Minnesota must appoint a licensed administrator with the full responsibility for the establishment’s operations according to state and federal laws and policies.

Under no circumstances will the administrator be allowed to leave the premises unless they can delegate authority to a staff member at least 21 years old and capable of carrying out emergency procedures. The administrator must also leave detailed information on how they can be contacted. It is strictly forbidden for the facility to be left without the supervision of a competent staff member.

In addition to the requirements mentioned above, the Disclosure of Special Care Statute expects licensed dementia or memory care facilities to provide consumers written information on the dementia care training of their staff. Directors must ensure that their staff members have received knowledge and training on Alzheimer’s disease and other related disorders, daily living assistance, problem solving with challenging behaviors, and communication skills.

When Should You Look for Memory Care in Minnesota?

Dementia is a health condition that encompasses different types of cognitive decline, with Alzheimer’s as the most common. This illness is incurable, fatal and degenerative, steadily causing impairment in memory, language, and visual, spatial and executive functions. In its early stages, an individual experiences disruption in daily activities. In the later stages, they completely lose judgment, speech, focus, and the ability to care for themselves.

According to a Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) report, 8.7% of adults in Minnesota aged 45 and above suffer from subjective cognitive decline. However, 55.7% of them have not consulted a health care professional, even as 38.6% admit that their memory problems are happening more often and/or getting worse.

Chronic illness such as arthritis, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, COPD, cancer, asthma and Alzheimer’s requires a team approach for patient care to effectively manage the disease. In Minnesota, many health plans and medical practitioners are now using this team model of care. It allows patients to receive the maximum medical care benefit.

This approach can be applied in the home setting during the early stages of Alzheimer’s of your loved one. However, you may find the need to place them in a memory care facility for the long-term during the later stages.

In order to assist family members in making this decision, the Minnesota Board on Aging (MBA) provides information and assistance through the Area Agencies on Aging. Pursuant to the state’s 2001 long-term care legislation, the MBA created the MinnesotaHelp.info website. On this user-friendly site, you can search for caregiver and consumer decision tools related to Alzheimer’s and dementia.

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

When a loved one is diagnosed with dementia, it can be challenging to determine the right time to transition them into memory care. In Minnesota, this decision is influenced by several factors, ranging from the progression of dementia to the capacity for family caregivers to provide care at home. Below are important considerations to help guide this decision.

1. Significant Decline in Cognitive Function

As dementia progresses, individuals may experience a rapid decline in cognitive abilities. If the person is no longer able to remember basic information, such as their address, family members’ names, or daily tasks, it may be time to consider memory care. Memory care facilities in Minnesota are equipped with specialized staff and programs to handle these cognitive challenges.

2. Safety Concerns

Safety is one of the primary reasons families move a loved one with dementia into memory care. If the person begins wandering, becomes easily disoriented, or is unable to safely navigate their environment, memory care provides a controlled and secure setting. Facilities typically have secured units that prevent wandering and reduce the risk of injury.

3. Increased Behavioral Issues

Individuals with dementia may begin exhibiting behaviors such as aggression, agitation, or depression, which are difficult to manage at home. If these behaviors escalate beyond what can be handled by caregivers, it might indicate the need for professional intervention. Memory care facilities in Minnesota offer specialized therapies to address these behavioral issues and provide support for both the person with dementia and their family.

4. Difficulty with Daily Activities

As dementia progresses, individuals often struggle with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as eating, bathing, dressing, and using the restroom. If the individual requires assistance with multiple ADLs and cannot perform these tasks independently, memory care is equipped to offer the necessary support, ensuring the person’s well-being.

5. Caregiver Burnout

Caring for someone with dementia can be physically and emotionally draining, particularly as the disease progresses. If family caregivers are experiencing burnout or are unable to meet the demands of caregiving, transitioning to memory care can provide relief. Minnesota memory care facilities have professional caregivers available 24/7, ensuring that the person receives the attention and care they need.

6. Health Complications

Many people with dementia also experience other health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, or infections. If these health problems become complicated by dementia, it may become too difficult for caregivers to manage both the cognitive and medical needs at home. Memory care facilities are equipped to manage these complex health situations, offering medical assistance and ensuring appropriate medication management.

7. Inability to Communicate Effectively

Communication difficulties are common as dementia progresses. If a person becomes increasingly unable to express themselves or understand others, they may become frustrated or isolated. Memory care centers have specialized staff trained in nonverbal communication techniques and can offer assistance in maintaining social interaction and engagement, improving quality of life.

8. Deteriorating Physical Health

Dementia often impacts physical health, leading to problems such as weight loss, difficulty swallowing, and poor hygiene. When physical health declines to the point where daily care becomes too complex for family members to manage, a memory care facility in Minnesota can provide the appropriate medical attention and personal care to maintain the individual’s physical well-being.

9. Loss of Independence

As dementia progresses, individuals often lose their ability to perform tasks independently, such as managing finances, cooking, or driving. If the person is no longer able to live independently, and family members are unable to step in to provide these supports, memory care offers a structured environment where residents can receive help with everyday tasks in a supportive, nurturing setting.

10. Increased Risk of Falls

Dementia is often accompanied by physical challenges, such as unsteady gait, lack of coordination, or diminished awareness of surroundings. If falls become more frequent or the individual is at high risk for injury, memory care offers a safe environment with round-the-clock supervision, reducing the likelihood of falls and providing immediate medical attention if needed.

11. Isolation from Social Interaction

People with dementia often lose interest in socializing or participating in activities they once enjoyed. Social isolation can lead to worsened depression and cognitive decline. Memory care facilities in Minnesota provide structured activities that encourage socialization, mental stimulation, and physical exercise, helping to improve mood and cognitive function.

12. Difficulty with Medication Management

Managing medications for individuals with dementia can be a complex task, especially as the person forgets to take them or takes incorrect doses. In memory care, professionals are responsible for medication administration, ensuring that the individual receives their prescribed medications on time and in the correct dosages, preventing serious health complications.

13. Need for Specialized Dementia Care

Some forms of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease, require specialized care that goes beyond what family members can provide. Memory care centers in Minnesota employ staff with expertise in dementia care, ensuring that the person receives the individualized attention and therapies they need for optimal well-being.

14. Family Member Health Problems

If family members or primary caregivers are facing their own health issues, it may become increasingly difficult to continue providing care. In such cases, it’s often necessary to transition the person to memory care, where professional staff can step in to manage daily needs while family members focus on their own health.

15. Future Planning and Legal Considerations

Planning for the future becomes crucial as dementia progresses. If there are concerns about the individual’s ability to make decisions regarding their care, finances, or legal matters, it may be time to consider memory care. Facilities in Minnesota can help families navigate these issues by offering resources for legal and financial planning, ensuring the person’s long-term care needs are met.

What Should You Ask Minnesota Memory Care Communities During a Tour?

Family members who function as caregivers for loved ones with Alzheimer’s and dementia staying at home need all the help available in their community. While health and supportive services are present, most will discover that home care is no longer feasible as their loved one enters the disease’s later stages.

Making the transition from home to a memory care facility is a daunting task for family members who need to study all available options to determine the quality of care they provide. To address this need, the Minnesota Alzheimer’s Disease Working Group developed a Matrix that includes questions that family members can use to obtain consistent quality information from services providers.

Family members are encouraged to discuss palliative, hospice and end-of-life care with the directors of memory care facilities during the selection process, and while their loved one is still in the early stages of the disease. Using these questions as guide will equip both parties to plan for the future with full knowledge of the patient’s preferences. This not only prevents making hurried decisions but also allows everyone involved to follow the choices and respect the wishes of the afflicted person.

Another useful resource for family members looking for a memory care facility in Minnesota is the state’s online nursing home report card, arguably the most comprehensive one in the country. A user has the option to either view the results for a particular facility or to specify a location and choose the quality measures most important to them. Family members can do this to create a short list of facilities that meet their preferences before embarking on a tour of each one.

Available Programs for Memory Care in Minnesota

There are the following long-term care programs available in the state:

Home and Community-Based Services

Persons with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia may choose to stay at home under the care of a friend or family member and still receive quality support services. These include respite care, caregiver support and coaching, adult day health services, and escorted transportation.

The Health Care Home model involves the patient and the caregiver surrounded by health and long-term care providers, family members, and community partners. All parties closely coordinate and communicate among one another. This model has proven to produce equal health care among the elderly in ethnic, immigrant and tribal communities. It also entails lower costs and hospital admission/readmission rates.

The Communities for a Lifetime concept underscores features that enable communities to support all residents, regardless of age and/or ability. For those with Alzheimer’s, these include housing and transportation options, volunteer activities for social connection, and expanded amenities in existing infrastructure. With an aging population, more elderly with Alzheimer’s would need caregivers, particularly those living alone. These factors contribute to making the “community as caregiver” concept an essential and practical option.

Security Measures in Memory Care Facilities in Minnesota

Memory care facilities in Minnesota are designed to provide specialized care for individuals with dementia, Alzheimer's, and other memory-related conditions. Ensuring the safety and well-being of residents in these facilities is of utmost importance. As such, memory care facilities implement a variety of security measures to protect residents, minimize risks, and ensure a secure environment. Here are some of the key security measures commonly found in memory care facilities across Minnesota:

1. Secure Entrances and Exits

Memory care facilities typically have controlled access points to prevent residents from wandering away from the facility. These secure entrances and exits may include:

• Keycard or electronic entry systems: Restricted access to ensure only authorized personnel or visitors can enter.
• Alarm systems: Doors or gates may be equipped with alarms to alert staff if a resident attempts to leave or access a restricted area.
• Locked doors: Exterior doors and gates are often locked to prevent wandering, while interior doors can be safely monitored.

2. Wandering Prevention

Residents with dementia or Alzheimer's are prone to wandering, which can be dangerous if they become disoriented or leave the facility. To prevent wandering, memory care facilities employ:

• Fencing and enclosed courtyards: Enclosed outdoor spaces that allow residents to move around safely while preventing them from leaving the premises unnoticed.
• Tracking devices: Some facilities may use wearable tracking devices that can help monitor residents' locations in real time, ensuring they are safely within the facility.
• Floor plans designed for safety: Layouts are specifically designed to reduce the likelihood of residents wandering off or getting lost, with clear, easily monitored pathways.

3. Surveillance Systems

Video surveillance systems are commonly used in memory care facilities to monitor activity throughout the facility. These systems can help:

• Monitor entrances and exits: Cameras are often placed at key locations to ensure no unauthorized access or potential safety breaches.
• Observe resident activities: Surveillance cameras help track resident movements and behavior, which is essential for identifying any incidents or safety concerns quickly.
• Provide peace of mind: Family members may have access to certain areas of the facility through video feeds, providing them with reassurance about their loved one's safety.

4. Staff Training and Monitoring

Memory care staff are trained to handle the unique needs and behaviors of individuals with memory impairments. Training includes:

• Crisis intervention: Staff are trained to recognize signs of distress, confusion, or agitation and to respond appropriately to prevent harm to the resident or others.
• Ongoing supervision: Staff continuously monitor residents for signs of wandering, confusion, or risk of injury, especially in high-risk areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and stairways.
• Minimum staff-to-resident ratio: Adequate staffing ensures that each resident receives the attention and care they need, reducing the risk of incidents going unnoticed.

5. Emergency Preparedness and Response Plans

Memory care facilities in Minnesota have detailed emergency response protocols in place, which include:

• Fire drills and evacuation plans: Facilities are equipped with clear evacuation routes and conduct regular drills to prepare staff and residents in case of emergencies.
• Emergency medical systems: On-site nurses or staff members are trained in basic medical emergencies, with emergency alert systems available to request assistance quickly.
• Disaster preparedness: In the event of a natural disaster, memory care facilities have contingency plans to evacuate or shelter in place depending on the situation.

6. Medication Management Systems

To ensure resident safety, memory care facilities in Minnesota use secure systems to manage medications. These include:

• Locking medication cabinets: Medications are stored in locked cabinets to prevent accidental access by residents.
• Automated medication dispensers: Some facilities use technology that helps administer medication in the correct dosage and at the correct time, reducing human error.
• Staff supervision: Medications are distributed by trained staff who monitor residents' responses and ensure they receive the correct treatment.

7. Environmental Design for Safety

The physical environment of a memory care facility is carefully designed to minimize hazards and promote safety:

• Non-slip floors: Floor coverings are chosen to reduce the risk of falls, and mats or rugs are avoided to prevent tripping hazards.
• Adequate lighting: Proper lighting in hallways, rooms, and bathrooms helps residents navigate safely, especially during the night.
• Rounded corners and soft furnishings: Furniture and fixtures are designed with rounded edges to prevent injury if residents bump into them, and soft furniture reduces the risk of falls.
• Accessible bathrooms and handrails: Bathrooms are equipped with grab bars, and common areas have handrails to aid in mobility.

8. Visitor Screening and Policies

Memory care facilities often implement strict visitor policies to ensure the safety of residents:

• Visitor sign-in logs: All visitors must sign in upon arrival, providing a record of who is on the premises.
• Background checks: Some facilities perform background checks on visitors to ensure that residents are not at risk of harm from outsiders.
• Limited visiting hours: To minimize disruptions and prevent unauthorized visitors, visiting hours may be restricted.

9. Regular Safety Audits

To maintain high safety standards, memory care facilities in Minnesota undergo regular inspections and safety audits, including:

• Internal audits: Regular checks by management to assess the effectiveness of security measures and ensure compliance with state regulations.
• Third-party inspections: External agencies or consultants may conduct safety evaluations to identify potential risks and recommend improvements.

10. Collaborations with Local Authorities

Memory care facilities in Minnesota often work in collaboration with local law enforcement and emergency services to enhance security:

• Coordination with police: In case of emergencies, such as a missing resident or medical crisis, facilities have established relationships with local police departments to ensure swift response.
• Partnership with fire departments: Regular fire safety checks are conducted in collaboration with local fire departments to ensure compliance with fire safety standards.

Types of Memory Care Facilities in Minnesota

Although care homes in Minnesota are not specifically called memory care homes, dementia and Alzheimer's care can be received in two types of assisted living facilities: registered housing with services establishments, as well as nursing homes.

Memory Care Units in Minnesota Assisted Living Facilities

Registered housing with services establishments require a fixed monthly base fee which includes rent, board and a package of services. Through the Medicaid Elderly Waiver (EW) program, low-income and frail elderly can receive customized living services in these settings, including memory care. However, EW pays only for individualized services and not for rent.

Memory Care Units within Nursing Facilities

About 71% of residents in nursing facilities already exhibit cognitive impairment to some degree, and the odds of them having Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia is high. Thus, memory care units have become an important addition to nursing home facilities.

Alzheimer’s and dementia are now considered as a family disease. It not only affects the individual afflicted physically, but also the whole family emotionally, financially and spiritually. But with the wide array of options for long-term care in the State of Minnesota, families can be assured of long-term quality support and services.