Alzheimer’s Care Facility Explained

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As Alzheimer's disease progresses to middle or later stages, it is often necessary to place the patient in an assisted living or skilled nursing facility, preferably one that specializes in treating Alzheimer's and dementia, in order to ensure proper care. Assisted living facilities offer custodial care, which includes assistance with tasks such as bathing, dressing, eating and toileting, as appropriate. In addition, assisted living aides can provide medication reminders. Skilled nursing facilities provide 24-hour skilled nursing care, rehabilitation services such as physical, speech and occupational therapies; assistance with personal care activities such as eating, walking, bathing and using the toilet; coordinated management of patient care; and social services and activities. Medications are administered and daily living tasks are planned and delivered in a caring and trusting environment.

Facilities should be evaluated to ensure that the needs of the patient and family are met and exceeded. It is often vital for all parties involved to have the facility located near family members in order to allow for regular visits. Before making any decisions, prospective facilities should be toured and evaluated for cleanliness, safety, staff attentiveness and expertise, plans of treatment, activities available, menu options, care capabilities and more.

A facility's licenses and insurance documentation should be up to date and accurate. Get copies of the paperwork where needed. Check references from families who have had loved ones with similar diagnoses as your family member in order to measure actual experiences. Review the patient's rights to determine how any concerns that may arise will be handled.

Try to determine the overall "feel" of the facility and notice if it is generally calm and organized. The best facilities encourage family participation and strive to maintain the dignity and safety of those entrusted to their care.

Gilbert Guide offers information on how to assess dementia units in both assisted living and skilled nursing facilities.

Posted in: Alzheimer's & Dementia, Alzheimer's Care, Alzheimers & Dementia Care, Assisted Living, Assisted Living & Alzheimer's Care Communities, Skilled Nursing, Weighing your Housing Options

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