A Look at Memory Support at Hoosier Village in Indianapolis, 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 Hoosier Village in Indianapolis, IN, we specialize in The Journey, a comprehensive memory support program that provides compassionate, individualized care in a dignified, engaging environment. Understanding these differences can help families make the best choice for their loved one.

What is Memory Care?

Memory care communities, like those at Hoosier Village, are designed specifically for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other cognitive impairments. These communities offer:

• Structured, Purposeful Daily Activities: Using the Montessori approach, we align activities with each resident’s abilities, allowing them to engage in familiar, meaningful tasks.
• A Secure Environment: Our memory care residences are designed with safety in mind, including wayfinding cues, secure entrances, and enclosed outdoor spaces.
• Trained Dementia Specialists: Through The Journey program, all staff, including nurses and life enrichment teams, complete Core Dementia Care Training to ensure exceptional support.
• Family Support & Education: We provide monthly educational sessions, caregiver support groups, and transition guidance to help families navigate the challenges of dementia care.
• Non-Medication Approaches: Our team prioritizes engagement, routine, and sensory therapies to reduce anxiety, encourage connection, and enhance overall well-being.

At Hoosier Village, memory care is not just about safety—it’s about promoting independence, dignity, and joy for each resident.

What is a Nursing Home?

A nursing home (also called a skilled nursing facility) provides 24/7 medical care and rehabilitation for seniors with significant health needs. Nursing homes are ideal for individuals who:

• Require around-the-clock medical supervision due to chronic illnesses or mobility limitations.
• Need post-hospitalization rehabilitation, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, or wound care.
• Have complex medical needs that require frequent monitoring from nurses, physicians, and specialists.

While nursing homes provide essential clinical care, they typically do not offer the same specialized, engagement-based memory support found in dedicated memory care communities like Hoosier Village.

How The Journey Program Enhances Memory Care at Hoosier Village

Our Journey Program at Hoosier Village takes memory support beyond traditional care models. This program integrates:

• Personalized Engagement – Activities like sorting, cooking, or music therapy reconnect residents with past experiences and skills.
• Montessori-Inspired Approach – Residents participate in structured, hands-on activities that stimulate cognitive function.
• Caregiver Support & Education – We empower families with dementia education workshops, grief support, and transition planning.
• Highly Trained Staff – Every team member completes Core Dementia Training to enhance their ability to support residents with cognitive decline.

By blending innovative engagement, expert care, and strong family partnerships, The Journey at Hoosier Village ensures residents thrive in a secure, nurturing environment.

Choosing the Right Care for Your Loved One

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

• Cognitive Needs: Does your loved one require dementia-specific care and engagement, or are their needs more medical?
• Daily Activities: Would they benefit from structured, purposeful activities or require full-time medical support?
• Family Support & Training: Do you want a program that educates and includes families in care decisions?

At Hoosier Village in Indianapolis, we provide exceptional, person-centered memory care through The Journey. If you’re looking for a safe, engaging, and compassionate environment for your loved one, we invite you to schedule a visit and experience the difference.