Caring For Alzheimer’s

Posted on August 21st, 2011 by Senior Living Options of the Desert

Within the United States alone, it has been estimated that more than 5 million individuals suffer from Alzheimer’s disease, and eventually, these Americans will require daily, Around-the-clock care. The diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease in a loved one may seem devastating, but finding the appropriate facility that provides Alzheimer’s care can allow one’s loved one to maintain their independence as long as possible, while ensuring that their safety is made a top priority.

In general, there will be three different types of Alzheimer’s care facilities to choose from. Two of these options are assisted living facilities and skilled nursing care facilities that have allocated Memory Care programs. The housing, programs, and services provided in these facilities are specifically designed around the needs of those who have Alzheimer’s disease. The third option is a facility that is dedicated solely to the care of those who suffer from all forms of dementia, including Alzheimer’s. These are freestanding communities.

When you are choosing an Alzheimer’s care facility for your loved one, there are two specific aspects of a facility that you should focus upon. The first of these aspects is the safety and supervision of residents, and the second of them is the structured routine that is provided for residents by the facility. Decreased judgment, disorientation, and tendencies to wander off are all common symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, and this is why ensuring the safety and monitoring of patients is critical.

In a similar fashion, the Alzheimer’s care facility that one chooses should provide a structured routine for their residents. A firmly structured routine tends to decrease agitation in dementia patients, and visual cues within a facility regarding a routine can be comforting. The structured routine can often be used to alleviate some of the more problematic systems associated with dementia patients.

How Is Alzheimer’s Care Paid For?

The cost of a loved one’s Alzheimer’s care is going to depend upon the facility and the level of provided care that one selects. In most instances, the cost of Alzheimer’s care is going to paid for through private funding; however, there are some long term health care policies that provide some funding towards the cost of this care. Of course, some veterans, or their widows, may be eligible for pensions that will further alleviate the cost of this care. MediCal waivers may also be obtained in certain situations.

How Are Alzheimer’s Care Facilities Regulated?

In general, most Alzheimer’s care facilities are regulated and monitored on a state level. Within the state of California, the name of the agency responsible for licensing and regulation is the Community Care Licensing Department, a department within the California Department of Social Services. On the other hand, skilled nursing facilities are regulated on both a state and Federal level, and these facilities must be licensed by both Medicare and MediCal. Moreover, there are certain licensing standards that the administration and staff of a facility must meet.