Alzheimer's & Dementia
Caring for a parent or loved one with Alzheimer's is an extremely challenging experience for families. There is no general answer to what type of care is best — the appropriate level of care, preferred location, and budget all need to be considered, along with the families' personal preferences.As soon as a diagnosis of Alzheimer's/dementia is received, planning should begin for proper care for the Alzheimer's resident throughout all stages of the disease as it advances. Each stage of the illness requires different levels of care and support. Family physicians, the Alzheimer's Association, hospital discharge planners and social workers are also good sources for guidance.Once specific facilities are targeted, begin calling these facilities to learn more about financial arrangements, availability of beds and the various levels of care offered by each long term care community. Make appointments to visit several facilities to find out more about their history and philosophy. For those who are very early in the disease, certified assisted living services might be adequate for a time. However, it is important to remember that no medication administration or nursing functions can be provided by any assisted living facilities in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. For those more advanced in their Alzheimer's/dementia, a licensed personal care community is likely more appropriate. In a personal care setting, the resident receives licensed nursing services, medication administration, and assistance with activities of daily living such as meal preparation, dressing, and housekeeping. Intermediate care is required for those who need custodial care and/or assistance with walking, eating, bathing, toileting or other daily activities. Skilled care provides twenty-four hour nursing care, and is for any resident who has critical care needs such as IV medications, physical or speech therapy, wound care, or tube feeding.
State and local laws are established to protect residents and to assess the quality of care provided by each facility. Standards of care include such things as special diets if ordered, good grooming, and correct dispensing of medications. State survey certificates are often posted. Ask what sort of rating the facility received from its last state review. Ask for a copy of their "Residents' Bill of Rights". Ask what provisions are in place for residents' safety, and to prevent wandering. Are good housekeeping practices obvious? Coping with the behavioral problems and difficulties of Alzheimer's residents requires special skill and training, understanding and patience. The staff should be adept at handling the depression, confusion, and emotional instability that often accompany Alzheimer's Disease. Inquire about staff training and longevity.
Specialized planning, structured environment and activities are all important to Alzheimer's quality of life. Since Alzheimer's/dementia is a progressive disorder, can the facility provide a smooth transition from one level of care and service to another? Also look for facilities that develop specialized care plans for residents, encourage continued family involvement, and provide educational opportunities as well as support groups for its Alzheimer families.
