Choosing the right senior living option is a critical decision for families and older adults alike. Understanding the distinctions between assisted living and memory care can help ensure loved ones receive the right support, engagement and security they need as they age. At the Carrington at Lincolnwood, both care types provide personal assistance and comfortable living arrangements, but each is uniquely suited for different care needs. Our MOSAIC personalized care program offers the assurance that residents can access varying levels of care as their needs change.
1. Safety
Safety is a priority in any senior living environment, but it takes on an even greater role in memory care. Seniors with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia may wander, become disoriented or forget how to use appliances, which can pose serious risks. Memory care at The Carrington offers enhanced safety features, such as secure entryways, enclosed courtyards and staff who are trained to redirect residents gently and compassionately.
Assisted living at The Carrington also emphasizes safety, in a more relaxed environment suitable for those who are still largely independent. Emergency response systems, handrails and well-lit hallways are standard, ensuring peace of mind for residents and their families.
2. Staff Training and Care
One of the key differences between assisted living and memory care is the level and type of staff training. Memory care team members undergo specialized training in dementia and Alzheimer’s care. This includes understanding behavioral triggers, using nonverbal communication techniques, and creating a structured daily routine to reduce confusion and agitation.
In contrast, assisted living caregivers focus on supporting residents with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing and medication reminders. While compassionate and responsive, the training in assisted living isn’t necessarily geared toward managing progressive memory loss or behavioral changes associated with dementia.
3. Amenities
Assisted living residents at The Carrington enjoy access to a wide range of lifestyle-enhancing amenities. These include a wellness gym, salon, restaurant-style dining and scheduled transportation services. The environment encourages independence, social engagement and personal growth.
Our memory care neighborhood features a more controlled, calming environment with simplified layouts. Rooms and hallways are designed for easy navigation, with visual cues and memory boxes outside each residence to promote familiarity. Amenities are intentionally curated to provide comfort, minimize confusion and create a sense of security.
4. Activities and Therapies
In assisted living, the calendar offers a wide variety of activities like movie nights, book clubs, fitness classes, and trips to Lincolnwood’s local parks and cultural venues like the Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park.
Memory care residents benefit from therapies and activities designed to stimulate cognition and promote calm. Music therapy, art sessions, sensory gardens and reminiscing activities are part of daily life. Structure and predictability support emotional well-being and reduce agitation.
5. Costs
The cost of care is always a consideration. Though assisted living generally tends to be a lower cost than that of memory care, this is highly dependent on the level of care provided, as well as the specific apartment chosen by the resident.
At The Carrington, our pricing structure reflects the high level of personalized care and services in both living options. We encourage families to consult with our advisors to explore all available financial options and determine the most cost-effective plan.
Assisted Living vs. Memory Care: What Services Are Offered?
Both options offer:
- Medication management
- Housekeeping and laundry services
- Assistance with activities of daily living
- Social and recreational activities
- 24/7 on-site staff
Memory care adds:
- Higher staff-to-resident ratios
- Specialized programming
- Secure environments
- Behavior management support
How To Decide Between Assisted Living and Memory Care
The decision between assisted living and memory care at The Carrington depends on your loved one’s cognitive health, independence level and daily support needs.
Choosing Assisted Living
Assisted living is ideal for seniors who:
- Need help with daily tasks but are cognitively stable
- Want to downsize or enjoy maintenance-free living
- Seek social interaction, wellness programming and continued independence
- Can manage personal routines with minimal reminders
Residents at The Carrington’s assisted living enjoy a blend of autonomy and support in a beautiful, residential setting with access to services as needed.
Choosing Memory Care
Memory care is appropriate for those who:
- Have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia
- Display signs of memory loss or cognitive decline
- May be unsafe living alone
- Need structured routines and supervised care
Memory care at The Carrington provides an engaging, secure environment designed to foster connection, reduce anxiety and maintain dignity.
Memory Care in Assisted Living: A Promising Third Option
Some families seek a blend of assisted living and memory care services. The Carrington’s MOSAIC model supports transitions between care levels, offering a seamless path from independent living to assisted living to memory care—all within one community.
This approach is beneficial for couples with different care needs and for those whose health may change unexpectedly. Residents remain within familiar surroundings, and maintain relationships with staff and neighbors as their needs evolve.
Next Steps as You Consider Memory Care
Choosing memory care is a big decision, and The Carrington makes it easier through personalized support, family consultations and on-site tours. Here’s how to begin:
- Assess needs – Talk with your loved one’s physician to evaluate cognitive function.
- Visit the community – Tour memory care at The Carrington to experience the environment firsthand.
- Involve your loved one – If possible, include them in conversations about care preferences.
- Talk to other families – Hearing from others in the community can offer reassurance and insight.
- Understand the transition – The Carrington’s staff provides ongoing support before, during and after the move.
Families Also Ask
What are the requirements for assisted living staff versus memory care staff?
Assisted living staff must meet basic caregiving standards for personal assistance. Memory care staff at The Carrington receive additional dementia-specific training to help residents with behavior management, de-escalation techniques and memory support strategies.
What are the criteria for placement in assisted living as opposed to memory care?
Placement is determined by assessments of physical and cognitive health. Seniors who have minimal assistance needs and intact memory function are a good fit for assisted living. Those with progressive dementia, wandering behaviors or communication difficulties are better served in memory care.
Supporting Families Through the Journey
At The Carrington at Lincolnwood, we take every step to support not only residents, but also the families who love them. Transitioning to assisted living or memory care is deeply personal. Our experienced team listens, guides and creates personalized plans that ensure safety, comfort and peace of mind.
Discover the unique charm of The Carrington at Lincolnwood, where our programs, events and welcoming community create a lively atmosphere for residents to thrive. Find out how you can be part of our community by visiting our Contact Us page.
Featured Image: Dragana Gordic / Shutterstock
