North Dakota Memory Care Facilities

When it comes to the subject of high-quality senior living, North Dakota Alzheimer’s care homes and dementia care facilities are rarely mentioned in the national discussion, yet they are excellent. The North/Midwest state tends to hide compared to other states in the area like Montana, Wisconsin, Michigan and Ohio, yet North Dakota dementia care offers great value.

Statistically speaking, the state ranks just at the national average for average monthly costs. Compared to some states in the region, North Dakota dementia care homes are modestly priced and available for families on all types of budgets. Furthermore, Medicare or other health insurance is sometimes accepted at select North Dakota Alzheimer’s facilities to cover partial costs of care. All you need to do is ask the facilities you have narrowed down your search to, if you are considering a memory care facility as the next residence for a loved one.

Cost of ND Memory Care Facilities

Regardless of the type of facility, North Dakota memory care communities are priced at about $180 per day, right at the national average. The projected monthly cost for North Dakota dementia care homes is $5,400, and $64,800 per year.

All services and amenities the facility offers are included in the daily cost, from food (meals, snacks, beverages) and living space (varies based on the selected type) to the staff members who take care of the resident. Programs, activities and one-on-one therapies are also part of the monthly expenses.

Some of the services these facilities provide may cost extra on top of the monthly rate. The state mandates them to disclose such items, so you should always ask for a breakdown of the daily expenses to determine what you’re paying for.

Memory care costs by city:

The highest costs are found in Fargo and West Fargo, while smaller cities such as Bottineau and Rugby have slightly lower costs. The statewide average hovers around $5,500 per month. Keep in mind that additional services and the specific needs of residents can influence these prices.

Both memory care and assisted living homes offer both private and semi-private living spaces. Private units are more expensive because they house only one person per unit. Each one is equipped with a private bathroom with sink, toilet and tub or shower. If you’re on a budget, you can opt for a semi-private unit and have your parent or grandparent share their living space with another resident of the community. This type of unit also includes a bathroom with sink, toilet and tub or shower.

It is important to ask your loved one if they are comfortable staying in the same unit with another person, or if they prefer their own company. However, if a private unit is not within your budget, you must inform them ahead of time in order to set their expectations.

Medicaid and Medicare Coverage of Memory Care in North Dakota

In North Dakota, both Medicaid and Medicare provide coverage for certain aspects of memory care, but it's important to understand the differences between the two programs and how they apply to memory care services. Memory care typically refers to specialized care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease, dementia, or other memory-related conditions. It is often provided in nursing homes or assisted living facilities with specially trained staff. Below is a breakdown of how Medicaid and Medicare cover memory care in North Dakota.

Medicaid Coverage for Memory Care in North Dakota

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides health coverage for low-income individuals, including older adults, people with disabilities, and low-income families. In North Dakota, Medicaid may cover memory care services, but there are specific conditions.

1. Eligibility for Medicaid in North Dakota: To qualify for Medicaid in North Dakota, a person must meet income and asset requirements, which are determined by the state. People with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia may qualify if they have limited financial resources and need long-term care.

2. Memory Care in Nursing Homes: Medicaid can cover the cost of memory care in a nursing home for eligible individuals. These nursing homes provide 24-hour supervision, medical care, and personal support. However, the individual must require a certain level of care, and their condition must meet Medicaid’s criteria for long-term care.

3. Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS): In addition to coverage for nursing home care, Medicaid in North Dakota also offers Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) through waivers. This means that individuals can receive memory care services in their home or community-based setting rather than being in a facility. This might include services like home health aides, adult day services, and caregiver support, but the services must be approved under a waiver program.

4. Costs: Medicaid does not cover the full cost of long-term care in memory care facilities. Typically, the individual may need to contribute a portion of their income, such as Social Security benefits, to cover the cost. The amount depends on the person’s income and the specific facility’s charges.

Medicare Coverage for Memory Care in North Dakota

Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for people aged 65 and older, as well as for certain younger individuals with disabilities. Medicare covers certain aspects of medical care but has limitations when it comes to memory care.

1. Short-Term Coverage: Medicare typically covers memory care services only for short-term stays in nursing homes or other facilities if the individual has had a qualifying hospital stay (at least three days) and requires rehabilitation or skilled nursing care. This is often the case if someone needs care after an illness or surgery, but it will only last for up to 100 days, with the first 20 days fully covered and a portion of the remaining days covered under specific conditions.

2. No Coverage for Long-Term Memory Care: Unlike Medicaid, Medicare does not cover the long-term, custodial care often needed by people with Alzheimer's disease or dementia. This means that if an individual needs permanent memory care in a facility, Medicare will not pay for these services. The coverage ends once the individual no longer requires skilled nursing care or therapy.

3. Home Health Care: If someone with memory issues is living at home, Medicare may cover certain home health care services, such as visiting nurses or therapists, but only if the person requires skilled medical care (like physical therapy or nursing services). Custodial care, which includes help with daily activities like eating, dressing, and bathing, is not covered by Medicare.

Choosing the Right Option

When seeking memory care in North Dakota, individuals and families should consider both Medicaid and Medicare’s coverage options to determine what works best for their needs. Medicaid may be a more reliable option for long-term care, especially for low-income individuals who need help covering the costs of memory care services in a facility. Medicare, on the other hand, is more limited and is generally useful for short-term medical care, rather than ongoing memory care.

Why Choose a North Dakota Memory Care Facility?

In a state that only has 670,000+ residents, there are really no massive cities. The biggest, Fargo, only has just over 100,000 people. For those that want a slower pace of living and quiet neighborhoods for their loved ones, North Dakota memory care facilities are excellent. The midsize towns of Bismarck, Grand Forks, Minot and Mandan all feature a great selection of dementia care options, after Fargo.

If you’re a North Dakota native, finding a memory care community close to you offers valuable advantages. You can visit them anytime, and more often, and even take them home on special occasions. Also, if a medical emergency arises, you can be present at the site quickly.

According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, approximately 70 percent of adults over the age of 65 will require long-term care at some point.

North Dakota dementia care homes exist in a variety of settings. Some units are part of a larger assisted living or nursing home, where a section may be dedicated to Alzheimer’s and dementia, yet the residents still associate with other members that may not be suffering from one of those types of diseases. The purpose is to provide specialized care unique to Alzheimer’s or dementia, while also providing more hands-on medical attention.

Meanwhile, other memory care communities in North Dakota are 100 percent exclusive and dedicated to Alzheimer’s and dementia care. Just because these units are completely specialized to dementia care, it does not necessarily make them better than services offered in nursing homes or assisted living centers. It all depends on your preferences.

Nevertheless, the majority of these memory care facilities have staff members trained and experienced in handling individuals with dementia. In the event that any resident suffers from sundown or experiences confusion, restlessness and irritability, they will know exactly what to do to manage the situation and alleviate the person’s symptoms.

What to Consider When Looking for a Memory Care Facility

Now, what you need to focus on is how to find the right place that could provide your loved one with the right treatment and care they need during these times. North Dakota does have quite a number of senior care facilities in the state, so it may be challenging for family members to find the perfect place.

Dementia is a syndrome that causes deterioration in cognitive functioning. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is one of the major causes of disability and dependency among the older population. Thus, these conditions must be your major considerations as you embark on your search for the best residence that suits your loved one’s specific needs and preferences.

With that said, it is important for every family to create a checklist of the items they require in a facility based on those specifics. Here are some factors you’ll want to consider:

• Monthly cost and inclusions
• Health insurance acceptance
• Amenities and features
• Treatments
• Staff-to-resident ratio
• Security
• Living spaces

Before transitioning your loved one to a North Dakota memory care facility of your choice, you should schedule a tour visit. This way, you’ll personally see the living spaces and whether these will give the comfort your family member deserves. It also gives you the opportunity to ask the staff important questions that will help you determine if they are indeed the right choice.

Remember to ask about the business, the structure and the staff, specifically their license, certifications, and the type of training the staff received. You should also make sure there are certified dementia care managers (CDCMs) among the personnel, as well as the level of care they provide and their service plans for each patient. Knowing their emergency procedures during medical situations is equally important.

Ensuring Your Loved One’s Security

This is perhaps the most essential question of all: How safe and secure is the facility?

Among the greatest challenges of dementia patients, especially those with Alzheimer’s disease, are confusion and memory loss. Many cases of patients cared for at home have at least one instance of wandering and getting lost. For caregivers and family members, this is a stressful situation.

Due to the risk of accidents posed by wandering, you’ll want the assisted living facility you choose for your loved one to be a tightly secured place. It must guarantee that no resident goes out unnoticed and without a caregiver by their side. Their security measures and policies should be up to par with the type of care they provide the residents.

Here are some of the common security practices employed in these facilities:

1. Secure Entry and Exit Points

Memory care facilities are equipped with secured entry and exit points to prevent residents from wandering off or leaving the premises unnoticed. This may include locked doors, security gates, and alarm systems that alert staff when a resident is attempting to leave. Some facilities use keypad access or biometric scans to ensure that only authorized personnel and family members can enter.

2. Wandering Prevention Systems

Wandering is a common concern for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Many memory care facilities in North Dakota use electronic monitoring systems such as wristbands or ankle devices that alert staff when a resident moves past a certain point or approaches an exit door. These systems help staff quickly respond and prevent residents from getting lost or entering unsafe areas.

3. Surveillance Cameras

To monitor the safety of residents, memory care facilities often use surveillance cameras in common areas, hallways, and entryways. These cameras are not only used to observe and track residents’ movements but also to ensure that staff are performing their duties correctly. They may be monitored in real-time by staff members or stored for future reference.

4. Staff Training and Certification

Security is also ensured through proper training of staff members. Caregivers, nurses, and other staff members undergo specialized training to understand the needs of individuals with memory impairments and to identify any signs of distress or unusual behavior. Many facilities also ensure that staff are certified in CPR, first aid, and emergency protocols, enhancing their ability to respond in crisis situations.

5. Personalized Safety Plans

Each resident in a memory care facility often has a personalized safety plan that outlines their specific needs, preferences, and potential triggers. This includes information on how to best support the resident’s physical and emotional well-being and minimize the risk of accidents, injury, or wandering. Staff use this plan to ensure tailored care and safety measures are in place for each individual.

6. Environmental Design

The layout and design of memory care facilities are carefully planned to promote safety and security. Facilities are designed with clear, easily navigable spaces to reduce confusion and disorientation. Anti-slip flooring, handrails, and appropriate lighting in hallways and bathrooms are important safety features. Rooms are typically equipped with emergency call buttons so residents can alert staff in case of an emergency.

7. Regular Supervision and Monitoring

Memory care facilities maintain a high level of supervision, ensuring that residents are always monitored for their safety. Staff members may conduct regular checks, particularly during the night, to ensure residents are safe in their rooms. Additionally, activities and programs are designed to engage residents and provide structure, which can help prevent behavioral issues and wandering.

8. Emergency Response Systems

In case of an emergency, facilities are equipped with advanced emergency response systems. This includes fire alarms, emergency exits, and evacuation plans tailored for residents with cognitive impairments. Some facilities may also have emergency evacuation drills to ensure staff are well-prepared to act quickly in an emergency situation.

9. Visitor Screening

To further enhance security, many memory care facilities in North Dakota have strict visitor policies and screening processes. Visitors may be required to sign in and show identification before entering the building. Some facilities use security personnel to monitor visitors and ensure that no unauthorized individuals have access to the residents.

10. Family Involvement

Family members often play a crucial role in maintaining security within memory care facilities. Many facilities encourage families to actively participate in care planning and safety assessments. Family members may be notified of any significant changes in their loved one’s condition or behavior and are involved in developing strategies to ensure ongoing safety.

North Dakota Memory Care vs. Assisted Living

Memory care homes and assisted living residences are not the same in North Dakota. However, some assisted living facilities may include memory care units. But what exactly is the difference?

Memory care facility is a distinct form of long-term residential care establishment that particularly caters to patients with dementia. North Dakota special care units (SCUs) typically offer 24 hours of supervised care, 7 days a week.

The most distinct feature of these facilities is that the physical layout of the place, as well as the security services, are all designed to support individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. They make the site easy to navigate and ensure the residents are kept safe within the area.

Additionally, the memory care communities in North Dakota are required to secure a state-issued license in order to operate. They are further regulated by special care unit disclosure laws in 23 states, which mandates care providers to disclose all the special services they offer.

Assisted living facilities, on the other hand, provide housing, meals, and daily living support services on a long-term basis. Health care and medical services may also be included. In these establishments, care is available to residents from staff members on duty around the clock.

Assisted living facilities vary depending on the nature of services they offer. These often include transportation and medication management for residents requiring frequent treatments for their health conditions.

Which type of care facility should you choose?

If your elderly loved one has dementia, Alzheimer’s disease or Parkinson’s disease, finding a special care unit in North Dakota ensures that they get not only the best but also the right kind of care.

Individuals with early stage dementia may still be independent and would require assistance only with complicated tasks, such as cooking and cleaning. For them, assisted living is the better choice. If their memory loss results in forgetting to take medications, staff members in these facilities are allowed to remind them of their respective schedules.

However, if your loved one is already at the later stage of dementia, then a memory care facility is advisable. These establishments offer a higher level of security, and their staff are required to undergo training specific to the care of persons with dementia.

Therefore, you must determine if a community offers the right kind of care your loved one requires before making the final selection.

Memory Care vs Dementia Care in North Dakota

When considering long-term care for individuals with memory impairments, it’s important to understand the distinctions between "memory care" and "dementia care," particularly in the context of North Dakota. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they can have specific nuances when it comes to services, facilities, and care strategies.

Memory Care in North Dakota

Memory care refers to specialized residential care tailored for individuals experiencing memory loss, typically due to aging or conditions like Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia. The focus of memory care facilities is to create a safe and structured environment that promotes the well-being of residents with memory challenges. In North Dakota, memory care units are often housed within larger assisted living communities, nursing homes, or standalone memory care facilities.

The key characteristics of memory care include:

• 24/7 Supervision: Staff are trained to manage individuals with memory loss and ensure they are safe, particularly in preventing wandering or unsafe behaviors.
• Personalized Care Plans: Care is often customized based on the individual’s needs, and the staff assists with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as eating, dressing, and bathing.
• Safe, Secure Environments: Facilities are designed to minimize confusion and reduce stress, with secure entryways to prevent residents from leaving without supervision. North Dakota facilities are typically equipped with features such as circular floor plans, escape-proof locks, and memory cues (like photos or familiar objects) to help residents feel more at ease.
• Engagement Activities: Memory care centers provide structured activities that are tailored to the cognitive levels of residents. In North Dakota, these may include arts and crafts, music therapy, exercise programs, and other stimulating activities that encourage social interaction and cognitive function.
• Specialized Staff: The staff in memory care facilities in North Dakota are trained to understand the unique needs of individuals with memory loss, including behavioral management techniques and communication strategies.

Dementia Care in North Dakota

Dementia care is a broader term that encompasses care for individuals with various forms of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and other neurodegenerative disorders. Dementia care can be provided in memory care units, but it also includes a wider range of services across different care settings, including home care and nursing homes.

In North Dakota, dementia care services may vary, but key features typically include:

• Comprehensive Medical Care: Dementia care facilities often offer more intensive medical services, addressing not only cognitive impairment but also physical health issues, such as heart disease, diabetes, or mobility challenges. This is particularly relevant for residents with advanced stages of dementia who may need a higher level of care.
• Medical and Behavioral Support: Dementia care often involves more comprehensive interventions for behavioral symptoms of dementia, such as aggression, agitation, or hallucinations. In some cases, medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms.
• Therapeutic Interventions: Along with recreational and engagement activities, dementia care may include more targeted therapeutic interventions, such as occupational therapy or speech therapy, aimed at maintaining or improving functional abilities.
• Continuum of Care: Dementia care is often part of a continuum, where individuals may begin in a more independent living environment and progress to higher levels of care as their condition worsens. In North Dakota, this is reflected in facilities that offer different tiers of care, from independent living to skilled nursing, with dementia care services integrated throughout.

Key Differences Between Memory Care and Dementia Care

While the terms “memory care” and “dementia care” overlap significantly, the distinction lies in the focus and scope of care:

• Memory care is specifically aimed at individuals with memory loss and provides a structured, secure environment to promote cognitive health and safety.
• Dementia care encompasses a broader approach, focusing on various types of dementia and addressing both cognitive and physical health needs, often in a medically intensive setting.

In North Dakota, memory care facilities are often designed for individuals in the early to middle stages of dementia, offering a safer and more comfortable environment. In contrast, dementia care is suitable for individuals in all stages of dementia, including those with advanced stages requiring more intensive medical attention.

Availability and Options in North Dakota

North Dakota offers various memory and dementia care options, particularly in urban areas like Fargo, Bismarck, and Minot. Smaller rural areas may have fewer specialized facilities, but many communities have nursing homes or assisted living communities that offer memory and dementia care services. North Dakota has several regulations in place to ensure quality care in these facilities, such as staffing ratios and regular inspections by the Department of Health.

For families in North Dakota, it is essential to research specific facilities and consider the level of care required. Many North Dakota-based memory care and dementia care centers offer tours, consultations, and comprehensive assessments to help families make informed decisions.

When Should You Transition a Loved One to a Dementia Community?

Most of the time, families bring their elderly loved ones to a senior care facility when it becomes more difficult to keep a close eye on them. This is especially true with dementia patients who require hands-on care and attention 24/7.

If you believe no one in your family can provide your loved one with proper care, it will be more beneficial to all concerned to ask for help. Transitioning them to a memory care home or assisted living facility will assure a better quality of life and professional healthcare assistance.

Here are key factors to consider when deciding if someone with dementia should move to a memory care facility in North Dakota.

1. Significant Decline in Cognitive Function

As dementia progresses, individuals experience increasing difficulty with memory, reasoning, and decision-making. If a person is frequently forgetting important dates, appointments, or even the names of close family members, it may be time to consider memory care. This decline often leads to the inability to manage daily activities and personal safety, which may necessitate a more structured and supportive environment.

2. Safety Concerns

Safety is one of the most pressing concerns when caring for someone with dementia. If a person with dementia begins to wander, leave the house without understanding where they are going, or is at risk of falling or injuring themselves, memory care may be necessary. Memory care facilities in North Dakota are equipped with secure environments to prevent wandering and provide 24/7 supervision.

3. Difficulty with Daily Living Tasks

Dementia often impacts a person's ability to perform basic activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, eating, and toileting. If the person is no longer able to manage these tasks independently, or requires constant assistance, memory care facilities can provide the help they need, ensuring they are well-cared for and maintaining dignity.

4. Behavioral Changes

Individuals with dementia may experience behavioral changes that are challenging to manage at home. These can include aggression, agitation, hallucinations, or delusions. If these behaviors become frequent or violent, caregivers may find it difficult to cope, and a memory care facility can provide specialized care and strategies to manage these symptoms effectively.

5. Caregiver Burnout

Caring for someone with dementia can be physically and emotionally draining. If the primary caregiver is experiencing burnout, stress, or health problems of their own, it may be necessary to consider memory care. Moving to a facility can alleviate the burden on caregivers and allow them to maintain their own health and well-being while ensuring that their loved one is receiving the care they need.

6. Need for Specialized Medical Care

As dementia progresses, individuals may require more complex medical care that family members or general caregivers are not equipped to provide. Memory care facilities are staffed with professionals trained in dementia care, ensuring that individuals with dementia receive the appropriate medical attention, including managing medications and other health conditions.

7. Increasing Isolation

When dementia patients are no longer able to engage in social activities or recognize friends and family, they may become socially isolated. This can lead to depression or further cognitive decline. Memory care facilities provide opportunities for socialization with other residents who understand and share similar experiences, which can improve the quality of life for people with dementia.

8. Lack of Adequate Home Support

Not every home is equipped to meet the needs of someone with dementia, especially as the condition advances. If home modifications, such as installing safety rails, adding extra lighting, or adapting bathrooms, are not enough to ensure a person’s safety, a memory care facility may be better suited to provide the necessary environment and resources.

9. Financial Considerations

In North Dakota, as with other states, the cost of dementia care varies widely. If the costs associated with home care (including private caregivers or hiring medical help) become overwhelming, or if the person’s condition requires more intensive support than can be provided at home, transitioning to a memory care facility may be a more financially feasible option in the long term.

10. Legal and Financial Concerns

For individuals with dementia who may no longer be able to manage their finances or make legal decisions, memory care facilities can help ensure that their financial and legal matters are properly handled. Many facilities offer assistance with managing finances, bills, and legal matters, providing peace of mind for both the individual and their family.

11. Decline in Physical Health

As dementia progresses, physical health often declines, and individuals may struggle with conditions such as poor nutrition, weight loss, or chronic illness. Memory care facilities in North Dakota are equipped to provide specialized care for these individuals, ensuring they receive proper nutrition, hydration, and assistance with managing physical health problems alongside dementia.

12. Emotional Support Needs

Dementia can lead to significant emotional changes, including feelings of confusion, frustration, and fear. Memory care staff are trained to offer emotional support to residents, providing reassurance and helping them cope with the challenges of their condition. If a person’s emotional needs outpace the ability of their family to provide support, memory care can offer the expertise needed.

13. Increased Dependence on Family for Care

If a person with dementia is becoming increasingly dependent on family members for all aspects of care, it may be time to consider a memory care facility. While families may initially take on the responsibility, the growing complexity of dementia requires more intensive care, which may not be sustainable for the family in the long term.

14. Lack of Interaction or Engagement

If the person with dementia shows a lack of interest in activities they once enjoyed or becomes withdrawn, it may indicate that they are no longer able to engage with their environment effectively. Memory care facilities offer structured programs designed to stimulate cognitive and physical function, encouraging residents to remain engaged and active.

15. Advance Directives or Wishes

When a person with dementia has clearly expressed their wishes regarding the care they want as the disease progresses, these preferences should be taken into account. If they have indicated a preference for moving to a memory care facility at a certain stage of their condition, respecting these wishes is essential for their dignity and well-being.

North Dakota Dementia Care - Amenities

North Dakota memory care communities have traditional amenities like housekeeping, food service, scheduled activities and programs, and other events. Additionally, assistance with activities of daily living that include taking a bath, dressing, using the bathroom, moving from one part of the facility to another, or transportation to other places can be provided.

While friendly and caring staff always keep a close eye on the residents, they maintain a certain level of independence. Nevertheless, the most important service of any memory care facility is to provide programs, activities and therapies to help ease the symptoms of dementia and strengthen the cognitive functions of residents.

Each facility offers a variety of therapies and activities, which mostly focus on stimulating the senses and sharpening the mind, such as art and music therapy. Pet therapies are also very common as these help in easing the stress of the residents in addition to exercising their cognitive and motor skills. Crossword puzzles and Bingo competitions are two games popular with residents.

When vetting facilities for your loved one, make sure you study the programs and activities on their calendar. The schedule should be carefully plotted to avoid overstimulation. As the day ends, residents must begin relaxing with aromatherapy or other similar therapies to calm their nerves. They must avoid increased confusion and irritability that comes with sundowning which, according to experts, is most likely triggered by sunset.

Dementia-trained caregivers in the best North Dakota dementia care homes are known to provide great service with friendly attitudes and treat residents with the utmost respect and dignity. Personal privacy is always considered as much as possible in a monitored setting.

Lastly, the top North Dakota Alzheimer’s care homes can assist with wandering and getting lost, two unfortunate symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer’s. Security features often include automatically locking doors, security pendants for residents, 24/7 monitoring and building features like color-coded walls or sections to make the large building as uncomplicated and straightforward as possible.