Mississippi Memory Care Facilities

Memory care communities in Mississippi are of extremely high value. The state currently ranks fifth in the nation in terms of most affordable dementia and Alzheimer’s care. The only other states in the south with cheaper daily and monthly costs on average than Mississippi dementia care facilities are West Virginia, Arkansas and Louisiana. Even then, Mississippi’s memory care homes are not far behind in terms of pricing.

The appeal of dementia care in Mississippi, along with the rest of the south is its value. Along with reasonable daily rates, southern hospitality and good manners are evident in the day to day operations of skilled nursing staff, and they truly care about helping your loved one when it comes to tackling the devastating effects of Alzheimer’s and dementia. They are fighting in your corner, and can help ease the burden of caring for someone with dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease.

Detailed Cost of Memory Care in Mississippi

Mississippi Alzheimer’s care homes rank in the Top 5 for affordability. The average daily cost for a room for dementia care in Mississippi is around $150 per day. The national average is around $180 per day, meaning that families of loved ones in Mississippi memory care communities can save $30 or more per day.

If you do the math, that is more than $900 in savings per month, and $8,400 per year. Where else are you going to find more savings on quality dementia care or Alzheimer’s care?

The bottom ten percent of dementia care homes in Mississippi average $3,500 per month which are even more affordable than the median Alzheimer’s care homes in the state. Meanwhile, the top ten percent can go for as high as $230 per day, or approximately $6,900 per month. The more you pay, the more services and amenities one can expect with the best assisted care facilities in the state.

Below is a table showing the average costs of memory care in the state of Mississippi, along with the 20 largest cities, and a national average for comparison.

The average monthly cost of memory care in Mississippi is approximately $4,500, which is below the national average of $5,400. Costs within the state vary slightly, with Jackson, Southaven, and Madison being some of the higher-cost areas. The least expensive cities tend to be smaller towns like Meridian, Greenville, and Cleveland. Memory care facilities across Mississippi generally offer competitive pricing compared to national averages, making it a potentially affordable option for families seeking specialized dementia and Alzheimer's care.

Are you new to Mississippi, and unaware of where to begin for your search for Alzheimer’s or dementia care? The cities of Jackson (population 170,400), Gulfport (population 71,300), Southaven (population 52,500) and Hattiesburg (population 46,500) are your best bets based on population and variety of Mississippi memory care residences. Olive Branch and Greenville are other great communities for seniors with many care options.

Mississippi Dementia Care - Amenities

The top-rated dementia care facilities in Mississippi are renowned for offering a holistic and compassionate approach to memory care, emphasizing a perfect balance of the three primary amenities that make for the best Alzheimer’s and dementia care homes. These amenities are personal care, personal productivity assistance, and personal leisure activities, each designed to cater to the physical, mental, and emotional needs of residents living with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

Personal Care

Personal care forms the foundation of quality dementia care, addressing the basic day-to-day needs of individuals with memory impairments. This level of care encompasses assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as helping residents with basic hygiene tasks like bathing, grooming, and brushing their teeth. Staff members assist with getting in and out of bed, as well as dressing, ensuring residents are comfortable, dignified, and properly attired each day. Additionally, meal assistance is provided, as some individuals may need help eating or have dietary preferences or restrictions that must be carefully managed.

Meals are an essential part of personal care, with fresh, nutritious, and delicious meals prepared daily by skilled chefs or kitchen staff. These meals are thoughtfully crafted to meet both the physical health needs and personal tastes of residents, offering variety and nutritional value. Special attention is given to meal presentation and portion control, ensuring that each resident enjoys a balanced diet that promotes overall health and well-being. This is particularly crucial for individuals who may have difficulties with eating or swallowing due to the effects of Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Personal Productivity Assistance

Beyond basic personal care, skilled nursing staff at top dementia care facilities in Mississippi work tirelessly to foster a sense of purpose and self-esteem among residents. One of the key focuses is personal productivity, which involves engaging individuals in meaningful and fulfilling activities that encourage cognitive and emotional stimulation. These activities help reduce feelings of frustration and isolation, which are common for those living with Alzheimer’s or dementia.

The variety of activities offered is tailored to each resident's abilities and preferences, ranging from simple tasks to more complex hobbies. Residents can enjoy activities such as baking, where they can prepare simple recipes or decorate treats; painting, which allows for creative expression through colors and forms; or gardening, where they can tend to plants and flowers, which has been shown to have therapeutic benefits. Other activities may include writing letters or cards to friends and family, allowing residents to maintain connections with loved ones in a meaningful way. These opportunities help to keep cognitive abilities sharp, providing both a sense of accomplishment and a healthy distraction from the challenges of memory loss.

The care team works closely with residents to adjust activities to their cognitive and physical capabilities, providing encouragement and support in a safe, comfortable environment. This personalized approach helps to promote a sense of well-being, allowing residents to feel valued and involved in their care.

Personal Leisure Activities

Equally important as productive engagement, personal leisure activities are designed to promote social interaction, emotional connections, and relaxation. In the best dementia care homes in Mississippi, leisure activities are not limited to passive entertainment like watching television. Instead, the focus is on interactive and engaging activities that encourage residents to connect with others and stay mentally active. These activities are essential in fostering a sense of community and belonging, which is vital for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer’s.

For example, residents can participate in group games like puzzles, which challenge their minds and provide a sense of accomplishment as they work together to complete the task. Playing cards or board games is another common activity that offers socialization, mental stimulation, and fun. These games can be modified to suit the abilities of individuals, ensuring that everyone can participate and enjoy the experience. Music therapy is also frequently incorporated, as listening to or even creating music can evoke memories and emotions that stimulate the brain.

Socialization with friends, family, and fellow residents is strongly encouraged, as it significantly contributes to a resident’s quality of life. Whether through one-on-one visits or group activities, interaction with loved ones and others is essential for combating loneliness and promoting emotional health. The care team at these facilities understands the importance of maintaining these connections, and they support both regular visits from family members and group outings or special events that further promote social engagement.

Memory care vs Dementia care in Mississippi

In Mississippi, memory care and dementia care are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they can refer to distinct types of care, each catering to different aspects of cognitive decline. Both services are designed to support individuals with memory loss, but they vary in their focus, the types of services offered, and the care environments. Understanding the differences can help families make informed decisions about the best care options for their loved ones.

Memory Care in Mississippi

Memory care is a specialized form of long-term care for individuals with cognitive impairments, primarily those related to aging. This care is designed for people who experience memory loss that significantly affects their daily life, but the underlying causes might not always be dementia. Memory care communities in Mississippi provide 24/7 support with a focus on creating a safe, structured, and nurturing environment. The goal is to help individuals maintain as much independence as possible, while providing assistance with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and medication management.

Memory care typically includes:

• Personalized care plans tailored to the individual's needs and preferences
• Secure environments to prevent wandering or getting lost, especially in the case of Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia
• Therapeutic activities designed to stimulate memory, improve cognitive function, and enhance quality of life
• Trained staff with expertise in managing memory-related conditions and providing emotional support
• Socialization opportunities to promote engagement with peers and reduce isolation

These communities focus on maintaining residents' dignity and enhancing their cognitive function as much as possible, through activities that involve reminiscence therapy, music therapy, and other memory-enhancing programs.

Dementia Care in Mississippi

Dementia care, on the other hand, is more specifically aimed at individuals diagnosed with various forms of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and Lewy body dementia. This form of care is often more intensive than general memory care, given the progressive nature of dementia. People with dementia face severe cognitive decline that typically affects their ability to recognize loved ones, communicate effectively, and manage everyday activities.

Dementia care facilities in Mississippi are designed to cater to individuals with more advanced stages of cognitive decline. Key features of dementia care communities include:

• Specialized care for individuals at all stages of dementia, from early to late stages
• Personalized, stage-specific care to address unique challenges as the disease progresses
• Increased supervision to ensure safety, given the higher risk of wandering, falls, and other safety concerns
• Structured environments to reduce confusion and anxiety, with routines that help individuals feel more secure
• Advanced memory stimulation activities to help residents engage with their environment, despite cognitive limitations
• Medical management to monitor and treat the health conditions that may arise as a result of dementia, such as difficulties swallowing, incontinence, or sleep disturbances

Dementia care facilities in Mississippi emphasize not only the physical needs of individuals with dementia but also the emotional and psychological aspects of the disease, offering compassion-driven care that focuses on improving quality of life.

Key Differences Between Memory Care and Dementia Care

While both memory care and dementia care are aimed at assisting individuals with memory impairments, there are some key distinctions:

1. Scope of Care: Memory care can be appropriate for those with mild memory loss, while dementia care is typically focused on individuals with more severe cognitive decline, particularly those with dementia-related conditions.
2. Level of Supervision: Dementia care generally requires more intensive supervision due to the progressive nature of dementia, while memory care may be suitable for individuals who are still in the earlier stages of cognitive decline.
3. Specificity of Care: Dementia care is tailored to the needs of those with specific types of dementia, addressing the unique challenges posed by each condition. Memory care may be more general and can support individuals with a variety of cognitive impairments, not just dementia.

Memory Care Admission Requirements in Mississippi

Within 30 days before admission to a memory care facility in Mississippi, a senior would go through a medical evaluation to identify whether they will fit appropriately with the facility. Certain individuals will not be admitted to the facility if the establishment is not capable of providing the care and assistance they need.

Admissions agreements should be provided to each resident of the facility, which include the following information:

• Involved and agreed charges according to the period covered
• Additional services and the corresponding cost
• Refund policy
• The commitment to make timely notices of any changes in the resident’s status

Individuals with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, and those who require non-medical services or temporary skilled nursing, can be admitted to any Mississippi memory care facility.

Seniors may not be admitted if they:

• Require permanent or long-term medical care
• Are unable to move without help or are non-ambulatory
• Need to be physically restrained and are seen as a threat to the facility, other residents, personnel and to oneself
• Require assistance during evacuation and/or descending the stairs during emergencies, if the special care unit does not meet ANSI standards
• Require IV fluids and feeding tubes

Security Measures in Memory Care Facilities in Mississippi

Memory care facilities in Mississippi implement a variety of security measures to ensure the safety and well-being of residents, particularly those with Alzheimer's disease, dementia, or other memory impairments. These measures are designed to address the unique challenges associated with caring for individuals who may have difficulty with spatial awareness, communication, and daily activities. Below are some key security measures typically found in these facilities:

1. Secure Entrances and Exits

Memory care facilities in Mississippi often have controlled access points to prevent residents from wandering or leaving the premises unsupervised. This includes the use of electronic door systems, keycard access, and security codes that limit entry and exit to authorized individuals only. These measures help prevent residents with memory loss from accidentally leaving the facility or wandering off, reducing the risk of elopement.

2. Wandering Prevention

For residents prone to wandering, a common symptom of dementia and Alzheimer’s, memory care facilities use various techniques to monitor and prevent wandering. Many facilities install motion sensors, alarm systems, or GPS tracking devices that alert staff when a resident enters an unauthorized area or is attempting to leave the premises. Additionally, secured outdoor areas and walking paths are often provided to allow residents to roam safely within a monitored environment.

3. Surveillance Cameras

Surveillance cameras are often installed throughout the facility to monitor activity and ensure the safety of residents and staff. These cameras are strategically placed in common areas such as dining rooms, hallways, and activity spaces. They provide a continuous record of events and can be used to identify any potential safety hazards or incidents that require attention. Cameras help staff keep an eye on residents without infringing on their privacy too much, especially in public areas.

4. Alarm Systems

Many memory care facilities are equipped with alarm systems to alert staff to emergency situations. For example, bed or chair alarms can be used to detect when a resident is attempting to get up without assistance, which could prevent falls. Door alarms are also commonly used on exterior exits, signaling if a door has been opened without authorization, helping prevent residents from wandering off.

5. Personalized Care Plans

Each resident in a memory care facility typically has a personalized care plan that includes a detailed assessment of their behavior, abilities, and specific needs. These plans may include strategies for managing wandering, aggression, or other behaviors associated with dementia. Staff members are trained to implement these care plans and adjust them as necessary to ensure safety.

6. Staff Training

Staff members at memory care facilities in Mississippi are often trained in de-escalation techniques, safety procedures, and how to manage residents with memory impairments. Regular training ensures that staff can respond appropriately in emergency situations, maintain a calm and safe environment, and monitor residents effectively. This training also emphasizes the importance of monitoring residents for changes in behavior or health that could indicate a need for immediate attention.

7. Emergency Preparedness Plans

Memory care facilities are required to have emergency preparedness plans in place. These plans address various potential emergencies, including natural disasters, medical emergencies, fires, and evacuations. Regular drills are conducted to ensure that both staff and residents are prepared to respond quickly and safely in the event of an emergency.

8. Fencing and Gated Areas

Some memory care facilities in Mississippi may utilize fencing and gated areas around the property, particularly for outdoor spaces. This helps provide secure areas where residents can enjoy outdoor activities without the risk of wandering off the premises. Gated courtyards or enclosed gardens allow residents to explore safely while reducing the chances of accidents or elopement.

9. Keypad or Locking Systems in Resident Rooms

To further protect residents, many memory care facilities use locking systems in resident rooms, such as keypad locks or door alarms. These systems ensure that residents cannot leave their rooms without assistance, especially during the night. However, staff always maintain access and can quickly unlock doors if needed.

10. Visitor Monitoring

To ensure the safety of residents, memory care facilities implement strict visitor policies. Visitors are typically required to sign in, wear identification badges, and be escorted by staff members to prevent unauthorized access to resident areas. This helps protect residents from potential harm, as well as ensure they are not being taken from the facility by individuals without proper authorization.

11. Lighting and Clear Signage

Proper lighting and clear signage throughout the facility are essential to prevent accidents, particularly in hallways, stairways, and bathrooms. Many memory care facilities use high-contrast signage and lighting systems that make it easier for residents with vision problems or cognitive impairments to navigate the facility. These measures enhance safety by reducing the risk of falls and confusion.

12. Behavioral Monitoring and Supervision

Continuous supervision is a key element of memory care, and staff often monitor residents for any signs of distress or wandering behavior. In addition to security cameras, staff members are trained to observe non-verbal cues, monitor activity levels, and ensure that residents are engaged in safe, stimulating activities. Careful supervision also helps prevent harmful interactions between residents and ensures their needs are met throughout the day.

13. Technology Integration

Some memory care facilities have integrated advanced technology systems, such as wearable devices or smart sensors, that help monitor residents’ movements and behaviors in real-time. These systems can alert staff if a resident is in distress, at risk of wandering, or if there are any other safety concerns. The use of technology enhances overall care by providing staff with up-to-date information about a resident’s well-being.

Mississippi Memory Care Regulations

Specific regulations for memory care are set and monitored by the state of Mississippi and its Department of Health. Unlike other states, Mississippi is more specified when it comes to their requirements for operating an Alzheimer’s disease or Dementia Care Unit (A/D Unit).

Facility

The Alzheimer’s disease or Dementia Care Unit should be licensed by the Mississippi Department of Health. Both private and shared living quarters should be at least 80 square feet. Each floor is required to have a restroom for both genders and a shower or bathtub for every 12 residents. There should be a sink and toilet for every six residents. The facility must also provide a separate room that can be used for individual and group activities, dining, and family visits. This area should have a minimum space of 40 square feet per resident, but not less than 320 square feet.

Individual Care Plans

Each resident would be evaluated by a licensed practitioner qualified to make recommendations and determinations based on the senior’s cognitive and functional skills, including their nutritional needs and social abilities. Part of the assessment is the resident’s family support and involvement, the level of daily living activities they can perform, and the stage of behavioral impairment they are in.

The resident’s care plan will be developed by the facility’s staff and is mandated to be reviewed quarterly to evaluate its effectiveness. Reviews can be done more frequently should there be drastic changes to the resident, and if changing needs are identified.

Staff Ratio and Training

The state of Mississippi requires having a nurse present in the memory facility at all times, plus two staff members always on duty around-the-clock. Three hours of nursing care is mandatory for each resident per day. There should also be a licensed social worker and a therapist or professional counsellor available for at least 8 hours every month to guide the resident and their families.

An orientation specific to Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia must be conducted for newly hired employees. In-service uptraining should also be completed by all staff members every quarter.

Here is the staffing ratio dictated by the state:

· From 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM - One direct care staff for every 15 (or fewer) residents

· From 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM- One direct care staff for every 25 (or fewer) residents

Medication Management

All of the care home’s residents’ medication should be ordered by a physician, and can only be administered by licensed personnel. Able residents who can self-administer may do so but with necessary guidance from the facility’s staff, unless the physician says otherwise. The memory care facility must have a secure room specific to storing medication for its residents who are not able to self-administer.

In-House Activities

Residents of the facility must receive therapeutic activities every day. These are scheduled by a Qualified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, or a Certified Activity Consultant. Productive, leisure and self-care activities must also be incorporated.

How do you know you need memory care?

Deciding on moving your loved one to a memory care unit in Mississippi is no easy task. You will always second guess if it is time, and if you and your loved one are ready for the change. Bear in mind, though, that an Alzheimer’s disease or Dementia Care Unit is well equipped not only with facilities but also with people who know first-hand how to handle seniors suffering from cognitive impairment.

You may have a hard time moving your loved one if their condition is already in the late stages. The facility could do early interventions, and your senior could have further thrived if you moved them earlier. But below are the indications that it is time to make the move.

Their emotional and physical needs are getting more significant

This is the reality of people with Alzheimer’s. It is not just an increase in memory lapses on their part, but on your part, it is also being unable to cope with and comfort them when they become incontinent or require 24/7 supervision. Their physical health might also decline due to health complications that come with age. The bottom line is, the care you are providing is no longer enough.

Withdrawal from society

Everyday engagement is essential, whether it is with family members or friends, but this would increasingly become a challenge for people with dementia. Keeping up with the conversations can be difficult, which makes the whole experience more depressing for them. So, as a defense mechanism, they’ll isolate themselves from other people. This is not healthy for their mental state.

Memory care at home is not working

Everyone tries to pitch in, you have formulated a care schedule, and you’ve also hired someone to help out. But by the end of the day, you feel like the set-up is just not working for all involved. This is the situation in homes where a loved one with dementia resides. Besides keeping a balance between your own family and work, you’d also want to provide that loving and secure environment for your loved one. Unfortunately, one will eventually crumble and fall apart. If this is your present set-up, then take the time and consider your local memory care unit.

Family members are tired and stressed

This is a terrible combination because your senior can feel the anxiety in the air and it will make them feel equally anxious, unhappy, and even resentful of the situation and of themselves. Worse, you’d also feel bitter about having to go through the journey with them. As a caregiver and spouse, son or daughter, you have to keep in mind that if you are tired, your senior will receive the worst care. They won’t feel the sincerity of your assistance as your emotions give you away. But they are also tired like you, and extremely scared. The last thing you’d want them to feel is being a burden to you.

List of Questions to Go Through During a Tour

A memory care community tour is the best chance you have to address your concerns and know more about the new home of your loved one. This is the time to ask your questions. Having all the hesitations and confusions cleared will make you more confident in moving your senior to the facility. It will give you peace of mind that you made the right choice.

Here is a list of questions you can start with when touring memory care homes in Mississippi:

1. How many residents / medical staff/ nurses do you currently have?

2. How safe is the facility?

3. How much does it cost and what are the inclusions in the monthly fee?

4. What makes your facility different from other A/D units in the state?

5. How can our family be involved in our loved one’s care?

Should You Choose Memory Care or Assisted Living?

In Mississippi, a licensed establishment like an assisted living facility can create a separate Alzheimer’s disease / Dementia Care Unit (A/D). Both should be approved by the state’s Health Department.

Assisted living facilities in Mississippi provide personal care and other additional services to their residents. These services are created to help residents in their activities of daily living and include, but are not limited to, medication management and emergency response assistance.

Residents previously living in assisted living communities can transition to the special care unit when they are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or any other form of dementia. These Dementia Care Units are designed primarily with their residents’ profile in mind. The staff members are trained specifically on how to handle and help residents with this illness. In addition, the security level is tighter in these units while still providing as much independence and freedom to residents as possible.