Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s can be challenging, and there may come a time when an Alzheimer’s care facility is the next step in their care journey. Finding the right facility is crucial to ensuring that your loved one receives the highest quality of care and respect. Let’s review some of the key factors to consider when looking for a care facility below.
Specialized in Alzheimer’s Care
One of the most important aspects to look for in an Alzheimer’s care facility is specialized care that is tailored for individuals with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. The staff should be trained in Alzheimer’s care and have experience in dealing with the unique needs and challenges associated with these diseases. Ask each facility about their training programs and protocols for managing Alzheimer’s- related behaviors.
Safety and Security Measures
Alzheimer’s patients often experience memory loss and confusion, making safety and security another one of the most important aspects to consider when looking at care facilities. Look for facilities that have secure entrances, 24/7 surveillance, and a well-designed layout that minimizes the risk of being able to wander off. Ask about their emergency response systems and talk through their specific safety measures. Our facility is safely secured with secure entrances and courtyards, as well as a 24-hour security system.
Staff-to-Resident Ratio
The staff-to-resident ratio is a critical factor that directly impacts the quality of care your loved one will receive. Ensure that the facility has an adequate number of staff members to meet the needs of each resident. A lower staff-to-resident ratio allows for more personalized care and attention for each resident, an essential factor in Alzheimer’s care.
Personalized Care Plans
As with any facility, a personalized care plan is incredibly important as all residents have unique needs and preferences. A quality care facility should develop and implement individualized care plans based on comprehensive assessments of your loved one’s physical, mental, and emotional condition. Ask about the process of creating care plans and how frequently they are reviewed and updated.
Activities and Programs
Staying mentally and socially active is vital for those with Alzheimer’s and Dementia. Look for a facility that has a robust activities program specifically designed to promote cognitive function, exercise, social interaction, and more. At Shaker Place, our activities department offers residents the ability to partake in fun daily activities that stimulate their minds and allow them to interact with residents and staff!
Dining Services and Dietary Support
Maintaining a healthy diet is crucial to residents’ overall health. Access to nutritious and delicious meals is an incredibly important part of Alzheimer’s care. Our Shaker Place team provides access to a registered dietician for meal planning, and our full-time chef provides delicious meals in a home-like setting.
Encourages Family Involvement
Family involvement is vital for the well-being of those with Alzheimer’s. A quality care facility will encourage family participation and maintain open lines of communication with regular family meetings, updates of your loved one’s condition, and the ability to visit with your loved one as much as possible.
Learn More About Our Skilled Nursing Facility!
Finding an Alzheimer’s care facility for your loved one requires careful consideration of many factors. Specialized care, appropriate staff-to-resident ratio, safety measures, personalized care plans, and more are all incredibly important aspects to research before deciding on a facility. Contact our Shaker Place team today to learn more about our Alzheimer’s care facility and how we will support your loved one.