Memory Care vs. Nursing Homes: What’s the Difference?

A Look at Memory Support at Towne House in Fort Wayne, IN

Written by: Megan Ulrich

When a loved one begins to experience memory loss, families often struggle to determine the best level of care. Should they consider memory care or in a traditional skilled nursing home? While both provide support for older adults, they differ significantly in their approach, environment, and level of care.

At Towne House in Fort Wayne, IN, we specialize in The Journey, a Montessori-based memory support program that emphasizes engagement, purpose, and person-centered care. Understanding these differences can help families make the best decision for their loved one’s unique needs.

What is Memory Care?

Memory care communities, like Towne House, are designed to support individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other cognitive impairments. These communities provide:

• Engagement-Based Daily Activities – Using the Montessori approach, we align daily routines with each resident’s abilities, past experiences, and interests, ensuring meaningful engagement.
• Secure & Comforting Environments – Our memory care residences are thoughtfully designed with wayfinding cues, enclosed outdoor spaces, and secured entrances to provide safety and familiarity.
• Expertly Trained Dementia Care Specialists – Through The Journey program, all staff, including caregivers, nurses, and life enrichment teams, complete Core Dementia Care Training to deliver compassionate, specialized support.
• Family Support & Education – We offer monthly dementia education workshops, support groups, and transition planning assistance to help families navigate the evolving needs of their loved one.
• Non-Medication Interventions – We prioritize structured routines, engagement therapies, and sensory-based activities to reduce anxiety and promote emotional well-being.

At Towne House, memory care is about more than just supervision—it’s about creating purpose, connection, and fulfillment in every day.

What is a Nursing Home?

A nursing home (or skilled nursing facility) provides 24/7 medical care for seniors with chronic health conditions or rehabilitation needs. Nursing homes are best suited for individuals who:

• Require continuous medical supervision due to complex health conditions.
• Need post-hospitalization rehabilitation, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, or wound care.
• Have advanced mobility issues or medical concerns requiring frequent oversight by nurses and physicians.

While nursing homes provide essential clinical care, they lack the engagement-focused, dementia-specific support offered in dedicated memory care communities like Towne House.

How The Journey Enhances Memory Care at Towne House

At Towne House, our Journey Program offers a revolutionary approach to memory care, integrating:

• Personalized Engagement – Residents participate in gardening, interactive storytelling, cooking, and music therapy, helping them reconnect with cherished past experiences.
• Montessori-Based Cognitive Support – Activities are designed to stimulate memory, encourage independence, and maintain cognitive function.
•  Caregiver & Family Education – We provide hands-on dementia education, grief support, and transition planning resources to keep families informed and supported.
• Highly Trained Dementia Care Team – Every memory care team member undergoes specialized dementia training, ensuring expert, compassionate care.

By combining scientific research, engagement-driven strategies, and a compassionate approach, The Journey at Towne House creates a secure, nurturing, and fulfilling environment for residents.

Choosing the Right Care for Your Loved One

When deciding between memory care and a nursing home, consider:

• Cognitive & Social Needs: Does your loved one need engagement-based memory support, or do they require full-time medical care?
• Level of Supervision & Assistance: Would they thrive in a structured, purpose-driven environment, or do they need around-the-clock skilled nursing?
•  Family Involvement: Do you want a program that includes caregiver education and family participation?

At Towne House in Fort Wayne, IN, we provide exceptional, person-centered memory care through The Journey. If you’re looking for a secure, compassionate, and engaging environment, schedule a visit today to see the difference.