Assisted Living Facility For Individuals With Alzheimer's Or Other Dementia

Alzheimer's disease affects approximately 26 million people worldwide. In the initial stages, the symptoms of this disease become apparent through loss of short term memory for recent events. It then develops into an inability to remember and perform the Activities of Daily Living (ADLs).

As the disease progresses, the symptoms worsen and manifest in the following forms:

* Mood swings
* Language breakdown
* Long term memory loss

In the initial stages, the patient can be looked after by family members. However, the next phase necessitates professional aid and care. Most people choose assisted living facilities for their loved ones affected by Alzheimer's Disease as they offer both medical care and residential benefits. In such facilities, the severity of the disease can be mitigated and addressed with patience, understanding and compassion. Numerous assisted living facilities for Alzheimer's patients are available across the US, California and Oregon.

Many assisted living facilities have a specific memory care program that caters to the Alzheimer-affected patients called a memory care neighborhood. Memory care programs comprise staff who are specially trained to deal with this condition. The environment in such assisted living facilities is designed to provide a comfortable and safe haven for residents with memory loss issues.

Essential Requirements of People with Alzheimer's

Progressive memory loss damages an Alzheimer patient's sense of identity and reduces their feelings of self-worth. Typically, those who suffer from Alzheimer's require:

* A structured routine and daily activities that reflect those habits cultivated over the years.
* Individual attention and care for specific needs.
* Safe, secure, comfortable and familiar surroundings.
* A compassionate, well-trained staff.
* Encouragement to engage in simple activities, such as making breakfast, going for a stroll, or engaging in creative activities, such as painting. Such activities can boost the self-image and enhance the feeling of productivity in patients.
* Uncomplicated outdoor activities, such as walking, gardening and exercising.

Prerequisites of Good Assisted Living Facility for Patients with Alzheimer's

The prerequisites of a good assisted living home are:

* Hygiene - Cleanliness should be maintained on daily basis; you can confirm this by observing the grooming of the residents and noting the atmosphere in the facility.
* Trained, 24-hour staffing - Conscientious and compassionate staff is a must; ask for reviews of staff performance from the relatives of other patients.
* Continual resident monitoring.
* Decor - The overall feel, use of space and quality of decor of the facility should be comfortable and homely, without being drab, melancholy or monotonous.
* Activities - Simple activities of everyday life should be balanced with intermittent hours of rest.
* Meals - Meals should be nutritious, staff-assisted and supplemented by snacks, to ensure adequate nutrition.