It can be a devastating experience to receive a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or other dementia disorders for both the senior person and their family. However, the senior care industry has changed a lot, offering many nursing home alternatives to seniors when it comes to long-term care. Shared below are the details of some of the best nursing home alternatives available to seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia disorders.
Home Care
Home care can be the first choice for many seniors who are newly diagnosed with dementia. This can be a good choice at the early stages of the disease and the family members of the senior should have a plan in place for what to do once safety and other issues start to arise. Dementia disorders are progressive, meaning that the disease can get worse with time, and the person can experience problems with judgment, aggression, wandering, etc. These issues can make an independent living almost impossible. However, there are support options available, allowing your senior loved to continue living at home.
Independent Living With Support
If home care is not a feasible option for your senior loved one with Alzheimer’s, independent living communities might be a suitable option. In independent senior living communities, senior residents live in apartments and will also be able to enjoy amenities like prepared meals, various activities, and even trips. Nonetheless, with the progression of dementia, your senior loved one will need extra help and support to remain safe inside the senior living community. Oftentimes, home health staff will be allowed inside independent living communities on contracts to support seniors.
Assisted Living
Assisted living facilities are another alternative that offers social and medical support to seniors suffering from cognitive decline. These facilities feature healthy meals, activities, and the service of nursing assistants round the clock, making assisted living a great place for seniors suffering from early to mid-stage dementia. But with the increase in behaviors like aggression or wandering, assisted living facilities may encourage the family members of the senior to hire extra caregivers privately. These private caregivers will be able to attend to the more complex needs of your senior loved one.
Memory Care
In the opinion of experts, a memory care community can be the most suitable option for seniors suffering from dementia disorders. These facilities have specialized staff members who are trained to help people suffering from cognitive decline. In addition, memory care communities offer a structured day of activities that can help prevent various behaviors that are linked with depression and anxiety.