Alzheimer’s / Dementia Care

As a person ages, a certain amount of memory loss and confusion is quite normal. Most Board and Care and Assisted Living Facilities are willing and capable to handle this aspect of a senior’s aging process.

If, however, a senior becomes increasingly disoriented, perhaps even occasionally wandering away, he/she may require a facility with a Dementia Waiver. This is an additional level of licensing where the Administrators and staff would have appropriate training. The perimeter of the home or community, often referred to as an Alzheimer’s Facility or Memory Care Unit, may be secured and oftentimes additional security measures are taken.

If an individual meets one or more of the following criteria, an Alzheimer’s Care facility would be appropriate:

Has been diagnosed with Dementia, moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease
Cannot care for themselves because of physical, emotional, or mental problems
Can no longer care for their own personal needs, such as eating, bathing, using the toilet, moving around, or taking medications (custodial care)
Cannot live alone and requires more care than can be provided by their caregiver
Could wander away if unsupervised, or is exit seeking
Is going to be discharged from the hospital and requires temporary custodial care before returning home
Has been recommended for an Alzheimer’s Care Facility by a physician

A senior with diagnosed Alzheimer’s disease would require a residence with staff trained to assist with the daily activities for a person with this disease. There are many such facilities with this additional license in San Diego County providing wonderful care for Dementia and Alzheimer’s patients. While more expensive, the care can still cost considerably less than a Skilled Nursing Facility. Our Placement Specialists are familiar with differences in cost, as well as what homes have the Dementia Waiver. 

Care Placement can provide a list of appropriate facilities in the area of your choice. Contact Care Placement with your questions and concerns, and we will kindly inform you of your options.

Unfortunately, economics rather than availability of services often dictate the choice. If a senior requires extensive assistance and has very limited income, perhaps only Social Security, he may have few alternatives but to move to a Skilled Nursing Facility for Long Term Care covered by Medi-Cal.

For More Information on Dementia Care…