Dementia-specific nursing homes provide a safe and stimulating environment. Finding a nursing home that provides the appropriate level of care is crucial, as dementia patients have specific and varied needs. They created this dementia in nursing homes guide to help you find the best care for yourself, a family member, or a friend.

What types of dementia care are available in nursing homes?

In some countries, there are three options for dementia care in nursing homes:

• Dementia-friendly
• Dementia-specific
• Secure dementia.

The optimal option for a person with dementia depends on the type of care they need. Please refer to the following sections for details on each type of dementia care.

Dementia-friendly.

In general, dementia-friendly nursing homes accommodate seniors with mild dementia symptoms who need assistance with cooking, shopping, and personal care but can move around independently. If necessary, the staff can keep an eye on medications. Residents with severe dementia should not reside in dementia-friendly nursing homes.

Dementia-specific.

There are numerous dementia-specific units or sections in low and high-care nursing homes. A dementia-specific team would benefit seniors with advanced dementia or other medical conditions. On dementia-specific units, residents interact with specialized physicians. Allied health professionals, personal care assistants, and registered nurses assist them. A team specializing in dementia employs only personnel with prior dementia experience.

Secure dementia.

A dementia unit is also known as a dementia ward. A nursing home has specific wings or sections dedicated to dementia patients. Secure dementia wards are designed for patients with advanced dementia symptoms who would be unsafe in a general nursing home setting and have a high tendency to wander. These patients exhibit progressive psychological and behavioral symptoms of dementia. 

They provide residents with a safe and welcoming environment. Many dementia-specific nursing homes have secure gardens where residents can stroll without fear of leaving the premises. Using a PIN code to enter or exit a ward or unit protects residents. Consult with experts if you have concerns about dementia care and senior physical therapy in nursing homes. They are familiar with the available options and can assist you in determining which type of facility would provide the best care for your loved one.

Considerations When Choosing a Nursing Home

When selecting the senior care facility and memory care assisted living that best suits your needs and way of life, you must consider several essential factors. Finding a nursing home that feels like home may take time and effort because moving into one is a significant decision.

First impressions are crucial.

The environment and architecture of a senior care facility are the first things you will notice upon entering. Note the home’s condition, including its cleanliness and freshness. This can help you comprehend what life is like there.

Chat with the residents.

It can be inferred from the atmosphere in common areas what the community is like within the residence. If you have the time, speak with a few residents to determine what they think of the facility and what they like best about it. The best people to ask about a nursing home are the residents.

Community and Staff 

To determine whether you feel at ease communicating with and receiving care from the staff, ensure they are cordial when speaking with you. You can visit this website for more information.

Conclusion

You should list your preferences, needs, and lifestyle requirements, such as the level of care you require, the facility’s religious affiliation, and the number of extracurricular activities. Additionally, you should ensure that visiting nursing homes makes you feel comfortable and safe.