There may come a time when you feel your can no longer provide the care that your loved one with Alzheimer’s needs. If and when that happens, you will want to look for a quality San Diego Alzheimer’s care facility.
San Diego Alzheimer’s care facilities, also known as memory care facilities, are staffed and equipped to care specifically for residents with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
There are many memory care facilities throughout the San Diego metropolitan area. But not every community or home will be the right fit for every senior.
It’s important to take steps to ensure that your family is selecting an appropriate facility for your loved one.
It is important to take time to visit the facilities you are considering. Visit more than once, at different times of day, and at least once without an appointment. And have a meal at the community.
Request copies of the facilities most recent inspection report, and ask what kind of safety and security features are in place.
Questions To Ask A San Diego Alzheimer's Care Facility
If you have a good feeling about a San Diego Alzheimer’s care facility, there are several questions you should ask before you sign a contract.
Staffing
- What kind of training does the staff have? Is it ongoing?
- How does staff interact with residents. Are they patient and caring?
- Is the facility appropriate for the stage of dementia that your loved one is in? What about the future stages?
- What is the ratio of staff to residents? Will your loved one get the attention he or she needs?
- Are care plans individualized?
- If your elder has other health conditions, are medical services and staff in place to see to those needs as well?
- Do you have a nurse on site 24/7?
- Are staffed trained to deal with aggressive residents (if applicable)? What about residents who pose a flight risk?
- What forms of therapy are provided?
Quality of Life
- Are there activities available to keep your loved ones engaged in life?
- Can residents go outdoors at will?
- Do meals provide ample nutrition? Is the menu varied and tasty?
- How much privacy and independence do residents enjoy?
- Can residents bring items and furniture from home to decorate their rooms to enjoy some familiarity in their surroundings?
- Is the facility pleasant and comfortable feeling?
Communication
- What are the procedures for visiting the memory care facility?
- Will you receive regular updates on your loved one’s well being?
- How are emergencies handled?
Costs
- What are the total costs for care, and how are the fees structured?
- Since most costs will be paid out of pocket, what happens if your elder can no longer afford care there. Is it possible to transition to Medicaid?
