Where is the best place for someone with dementia?
Dementia manifests and progresses differently in each person, which can make it difficult to know when to seek out residential care for a loved one. One person in the early stages of the disease might only need occasional assistance, while another needs daily care. The time it takes to move onto the next stage of care will also vary from one individual to the next. The best place for someone with dementia will depend on their medical needs and level of independence. Here’s a basic overview of the care options available for dementia patients, from custodial assistance to full-time residential care.
In-home care
Most dementia patients prefer to stay in their own home as long as possible. This is usually feasible in the early stages of the disease when the individual only requires basic care, such as food preparation, assistance with personal care and cleaning, and other household tasks. Caregivers in this scenario do not need to be trained medical staff, and are often family members or neighbors willing to lend a hand. However, professional in-home caregivers are also available, enabling the patient to maintain relatively independent living for as long as possible.
Adult day care programs
For patients who are unable to stay home by themselves during the day but are not yet in need of full-time nursing care, adult day care programs offer both supervision and social opportunities with other individuals. Socialization can help keep the mind sharp, and the programs usually offer other cognitive-supporting activities as well.
Adult family homes
Similar to adult day care programs, adult family homes are ideal for patients who cannot live independently at home but are not yet in medical need of full-time residential care. Adult family homes include a limited number of patients as well as staff who can provide minimal medical care if needed. Living with other dementia patients allows for socialization opportunities that can help maximize brain functioning.
Continuing care retirement communities
Offering a tiered approach to care, continuing care retirement communities aid dementia patients at various stages of the disease. Once the patient becomes less independent, they are transferred to areas of the facility that offer more involved care. One of the main benefits of continuing care retirement communities is that the spouses can continue living with the individual during the early stages and remain in the independent living areas even when the patient is moved to a higher level of care.
Nursing home facilities
Once a dementia patient reaches the point where they can no longer live alone and they need more supervision and medical care than an adult care program or group home can provide, nursing home facilities offer around-the-clock medical care and all the amenities needed to help maximize quality of life. Nursing home facilities usually offer a wide variety of activities and socialization opportunities, and if the patient’s condition deteriorates further, nursing facilities are equipped to provide high level care and comfort.
Memory care units
Many nursing home facilities offer specialized memory care units for patients with dementia, which includes medical care, physical and occupational therapy if needed, and staff that are uniquely trained to care for patients with dementia. Memory care units also offer structured activities that are specifically designed for dementia patients, along with social opportunities such as dances, games, arts and crafts, and more.
Deciding on the right level of care for a loved one with dementia is a difficult task, and if residential care is the best option, Bella Vista can help. Our 5-Star Skilled Nursing Facility offers a wide variety of amenities and programs aimed at providing each patient with the highest quality of life, along with round-the-clock care from our team of compassionate medical professionals and support staff. For more information about dementia care or to schedule a tour of our facility, fill out our contact form or call us at (619) 399-7920.