When someone suffers from Alzheimer’s or dementia, even the everyday becomes difficult. At Petersen Health Care, we offer assistance to accommodate the varying levels of memory and function loss brought on by this disease. While many people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s may be capable of living at home or on their own, their safety and well-being become a greater concern as they progressively lose memory, perception and judgment. When the time comes that it is too difficult for caregivers and family to care for them safely, Petersen Health Care offers an alternative.

It’s important that you examine the potential living arrangements and alternative treatments that are available in your area before the time comes when care away from home is necessary. The disease’s onset of cognitive and physical losses mandate special attention by trained professionals who not only have the ability to work with people at all stages of function/memory loss, but who are also able to remain compassionate while interacting with these residents. With care that is available 24 hours a day, Petersen Health Care offers a friendly, yet supervised, environment that is designed to keep your loved one safe and to maintain their quality of life as much as possible.

Alzheimer’s and dementia are difficult for everyone. Residents need special compassion and understanding as their functions change, and the staff must be able to accommodate these changes. Family members need education as to the nature of these diseases and help in dealing with the changes that may occur. Security is also an important issue because those who no longer remember details end up lost and confused if they are somehow able to wander outside their home. These are just some of the issues that should be assessed. Once the level of care is determined (assisted living vs. skilled nursing), you can use the guidelines in Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing, along with the following tips for those offering Alzheimer’s/dementia care.

• Does their program seem to encourage independence and functioning?
• Does the staff ensure dignity and value of each resident?
• Do staff members appear understanding and compassionate?
• How do the employees interact with these residents?
• What are the safety measures that are offered?
• Do you feel comfortable about the care being provided?
• Are special efforts made to reduce confusion and resident frustration?
• Are physical restraints and medications used? If so, under what conditions and how frequently?
• Is each resident assessed regularly to meet changing needs and the possible progression of the disease?
• How are treatment plans determined?
• Does the staff understand this disease and its progression?
• Is the staff well verse on care techniques for Alzheimer’s/dementia residents?
• What are the staff-to-resident ratios? (This is especially important as memory and function decreases.)
• What types of specialists are available to assist with these residents? (Counseling, physician, psychiatrist, licensed nurses?)
• Are activities designed to encourage the residents’ strengths and function?
• Are activities offered in a large group? Small group? One on one? All?
• Is the environment secure, yet cheerful?
• Do residents and staff appear calm?
• Is there special assistance throughout the home to keep residents oriented.
• Easy access to restrooms?
• Is the atmosphere soothing?
• Is family support offered?
• Is ongoing education and counseling provided?
• What is their reputation in the community?

Contact us to discuss the level of care necessary for different stages of the disease.