When your loved one begins to experience mental impairment, whether it’s your parent, spouse, sibling or even your child, your first reaction might be to do anything possible to fix the problem. While there are some treatments that might alleviate the symptoms, in many cases it’s time to accept the fact that your loved one may never be the same mentally. Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and similar mental impairments may mean that you must find an assisted living facility for your relative’s health and safety. Here are some important factors to consider.
The physical attributes of the facility itself are crucial. Outside doors as well as inner doors to limited access areas should be locked and set on an alarm system. However, you don’t want your loved one to feel as though he’s living in a prison. Much-needed privacy for his basic functions are an important part of his daily routine. Many elder care experts recommend that a care facility which focuses on patients with mental impairment have a relaxing, soothing outdoor area for residents and guests to enjoy that also offers the security necessary to prevent the patients from wandering away.
The level of care offered by facility employees is also very important. The directors, heads of staff and all other employees should be licensed for the jobs that they are assigned to do. In addition, specific training in care of patients with Alzheimer’s and other mental impairments is extremely beneficial. Proper training can help caregivers offer the level of concern that helps residents feel respected rather than pitied or looked down upon. A well-trained, caring staff can mean the difference between a patient who is content and thriving and one who is trying to escape the facility.
A facility may meet all the requirements a family has, but if it is located too far away, it won’t benefit the patient or his loved ones. Any mentally impaired patient needs contact with family and friends just the same as a mentally sharp resident does. Finding the right care facility may take some time, but it’s well worth the effort. A qualified Memory Care Facility in Anaheim, CA can provide all the benefits a mentally impaired family member needs in a way that helps him retain his independence and dignity as much as possible.
