Is memory care worth the extra cost?

For mid-to-late stage dementia, usually yes — both for safety and for quality of life. For early-stage dementia where the resident is still oriented, a well-run general unit may be a better fit.

How do I know if a home over-uses antipsychotics?

CMS publishes the percentage of long-stay residents on antipsychotics for every nursing home on Medicare.gov Care Compare. The national average is roughly 14–15%; under 10% is excellent, over 20% is a red flag without a clear clinical reason.

What if my parent is in a non-memory wing and starts wandering?

Ask for a care plan meeting immediately. Options include increased supervision, a move to the memory wing, or in rare cases (and only as a last resort) a doctor-approved medication change. Restraints are not an acceptable answer.

Quality & safety·US & AU

Memory care for dementia: what to look for in a nursing home

By Nursing Home Match editorial team 2 min read

Framed photograph beside a pressed forget-me-not flower in soft window light, representing memory care for residents living with dementia — A good memory-care unit is built around routine, light, calm and trained dementia staff — not just a locked door.

Dementia residents have specific needs that not every nursing home meets well. A 'memory care' or 'special care unit' should look and feel different from a general wing. Here's what to look for and what to ask.

Specialised staffing

Staff should have dedicated dementia training (not just an annual hour). Ask about turnover specifically on the memory wing — high turnover is harder on dementia residents than any other group. Higher staff-to-resident ratios than the general floor (1:5 day shift is a reasonable benchmark).

Physical design

Secure perimeter with discreet (not institutional) door alarms or keypads. Looped walking paths so residents can wander safely. Natural light and outdoor access — proven to improve sleep and mood. Clear sightlines so staff can see most of the unit. Memory boxes outside each room to help residents find their door.

Care practices

Person-centred care plans built around the resident's life story, preferences and routines. Low use of antipsychotic medication — under 15% is good (CMS publishes this in the quality measures). Restraint-free policy. Music therapy, pet visits, sensory programs, and validation therapy rather than reality orientation.

Activities

Activities should be scaled to ability — short, sensory, repeatable. Look for: hand-massage, simple cooking, gardening, music from the resident's youth, doll therapy where appropriate. Avoid units where the main 'activity' is the TV being on in the lounge.

Family involvement

Open visiting hours (not 'visiting hours'). Care conferences at least quarterly. Easy ways to send photos and updates from family. Support group for relatives.

Frequently asked questions

Authoritative sources

The figures and rules in this guide are drawn from the following official and independent sources. Open any link to verify the latest published numbers.

Choosing a Care Provider
Alzheimer's Association
Dementia Australia — residential care
Dementia Australia
Quality measures: long-stay antipsychotic use
CMS.gov

About this guide

Written and reviewed by the Nursing Home Match editorial team. We update guides at least annually and verify every figure against the official sources listed above. This guide is general information, not personal, medical, financial or legal advice. Always confirm details on Medicare.gov Care Compare (United States) or My Aged Care (Australia), or speak to a qualified adviser before making decisions.