Hi everyone. This is my first time posting here. Have been meaning to do for a long long time but something always came up. The time was now to join and get some insight, info, basically anything from anyone.
Came to the realization last week that it is time to put mom into a facility that can give more specialized care than I can. I have been taking care of her being her primary care provider for last 11 years. I have lived with her all these years and it has gotten to the point that I just can no longer do it. The decision to place her in LTC has been so hard for me because I have been her primary. I feel as if my mind is going in a million directions on where to place her, what to look for, etc,. I am afraid I am going to forget to ask something important with everything I have on my mind. So please any advice on this would be greatly appreciated.

Sandi,

Thanks so much for writing! I can tell this is a difficult time for you. It sounds very overwhelming because there is alot to think about when trying to place a loved one in a care facility. Here are some ideas of what to look for when you are choosing a facility:

-Observe how the environment of the facility promotes independence and comfort of the residents and provides safety and security.

-Ask if staff are continually trained on dementia care issues. It is very important that the staff are knowledgeable about dementia/Alzheimer’s!

-Ask what kind of programs are offered for people with Alzheimer’s and how different levels of functioning are addressed. If your mother gets worse, can she move to another part of the facility or will you have to find some other place for her to go? Are there activities offered to keep the individuals living there active?

-Talk with residents and visitors about their opinions of the facility and staff.

-See if residents look happy, comfortable, relaxed, and involved in activities.

-Ensure that you witness a typical day, arrive unexpectedly.

-Talk with staff working with residents—are they competent and content in their jobs?

-Spend time in a variety of facilities observing what goes on and how people are treated.

-Meet with the administrator and directors of nursing and social services.

-Visit a facility more than once before making a decision.

Doing all of this, plus factoring in location and your financial situation will help you figure out which place suits you and your mom best. If you need help locating facilities near you (or you have any other questions) feel free to contact us anytime at 1-800-272-3900.

Warm regards,

Shelley P