Dementia-specific nursing homes provide people with dementia with a safe and stimulating environment. However, seniors with dementia have unique and varying needs, so finding a nursing home that provides the appropriate level of care is critical. We have put together this dementia in nursing homes guide to help you find the best care option for yourself, a family member, or a friend.
What types of dementia care are available in nursing homes?
In some countries, you have three choices for dementia home care:
- Dementia-friendly
- Dementia-specific
- Secure dementia.
The person with dementia’s specific care needs will determine which option is best for them. Please see the sections below for more information on each type of dementia care.
Dementia-friendly.
Dementia-friendly nursing homes typically serve seniors with mild dementia symptoms who require assistance with cooking, shopping, and personal care but can move around independently. If necessary, staff can monitor medications. Dementia-friendly nursing homes are not appropriate for residents with severe dementia.
Dementia-specific
Many low-care and high-care nursing homes have dementia-specific units or sections. Living in a dementia-specific unit would benefit seniors with advanced dementia or other medical conditions. Specialist doctors work with residents on dementia-specific units. Registered nurses, personal care assistants, and allied health workers assist them. All staff on a dementia-specific unit have prior dementia experience.
Secure dementia
A dementia unit is also known as a dementia ward. They are distinct wings or sections of a nursing home that cater specifically to residents with dementia. Secure dementia wards are designed for people with advanced dementia symptoms, both psychologically and behaviorally, who would be unsafe in a general nursing home setting and are frequently at risk of wandering. They provide a safe and comfortable environment for residents.
Many secure dementia nursing homes like Creekview Health Center also have completely secure gardens where residents can go for a walk without worrying about leaving the grounds. Residents are kept safe using a pin code to enter or exit the ward or unit.
Speak with specialists if you have questions about dementia care in nursing homes. They are familiar with the various options and can assist you in determining which type of facility would provide the best care for your loved one.
What to Consider When Selecting a Nursing Home
When deciding which aged care home best suits your needs and lifestyle, you must consider several essential factors. Moving into a nursing home is a significant decision, and finding a nursing home with a skilled nursing facility and feeling like home can take time and effort.
First impressions are crucial.
The first thing you will notice when touring an aged care facility is the environment and design of the facility. Note whether the house is clean, fresh, and in good repair. This can give you an idea of what it is like to live in the facility.
Chat With the Residents
The atmosphere in common areas can indicate what the community is like within the home. If you have the time, talk to some residents to find out how they feel about the place and what they like about it. No one better to ask about a nursing home than the people there.
Staff and Community
Make sure that the staff is friendly and warm when speaking with you; this will give you a good indication of whether or not you will feel comfortable communicating with and receiving care from them.
Conclusion
It’s a good idea to make an essential list of your preferences and needs, like the type of care you require, and a list of lifestyle options, such as whether the facility has a religious background or if it involves a lot of outside activities. Furthermore, you should confidently state that you feel at ease and safe when visiting nursing homes.
