It's not easy to make the decision that a loved one needs specialized Alzheimer care placement services. It's even more difficult determining which center or facility is the best choice for your loved one. You do have options to consider though, that can help you make your decision a little easier to make, such as using an Alzheimer's living placement service to help you identify the best facility for your loved one and his or her unique Alzheimer's and memory care needs. These are a few things to consider when making Alzheimer care placement decisions for someone you love.
Explore Levels of Alzheimer and Memory Care Offered
Some facilities are only capable of handling early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. They simply do not have the capabilities of managing patients in the more advanced stages of the disease. An Alzheimer's care placement service will help you determine the facilities that have dedicated memory care staff, advanced safety protocols, and adequate staff members to provide necessary care for patients experiencing various stages of Alzheimer's symptoms.
Examine Living Arrangements for Alzheimer's Patients
The living arrangements for Alzheimer's patients make a world of difference. It is also something that an Alzheimer care placement team will discuss with families. The more homelike the atmosphere, the better it is for patients living with memory impairments. Privacy is another vital factor as is their ability to bring familiar items with them when placing them in a memory care facility for Alzheimer's patients. Photographs, furniture, musical instruments, etc. can all play pivotal roles in helping to calm patients who are having terrifying episodes in which the world around them is unrecognizable.
Investigate Staff Turnover Rates
The final thing you want to do when considering Alzheimer care placement for someone you love is to check out the staff turnover rate, particularly for memory care patients. One of the most important aspects of solid Alzheimer's care is consistency. These patients require routine and do not tolerate unexpected changes in routine very well. When staff turnover is high, it doesn't allow patients the consistency they require and can be detrimental to their care.
Of course, you will want to check into normal aspects of daily care, food services, activities, etc. when exploring your options. Working with an Alzheimer living placement center helps by offering you the opportunity to compare different centers in your area so you can choose the Alzheimer care placement that meets the needs of your loved one best.