This is a very helpful article about choosing a dementia care facility. The author is North Carolina-based Donna Plunkett St. Clair, whose husband was diagnosed with dementia in 2010 at age 59 and then with Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) in 2015 at age 65. Donna shares the mistakes she made in choosing the wrong care facility…twice.
Here are the ten lessons Donna learned:
1. Start investigating potential facilities NOW.
2. Learn how your loved one’s care will change as he/she declines.
3. Learn how “problems behaviors” are defined and ask about examples of what might lead to a resident being forced to leave the facility.
4. Know what you can afford.
5. Assess if the facility is using innovative designs.
6. Ask if the resident can safely go outside.
7. Ask about safety.
8. Inquire about staffing levels, activities, and supervision for holidays, evenings, and weekends.
9. Ask if residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, and are offered second helpings and snacks.
10. Check service levels and quality when the facility least expects you.
These lessons are detailed in the article here:
www.lewybodydementia.ca/dementia-care-facility-choice-avoid-mistakes/
How to Choose a Dementia Care Facility. Avoid My Mistakes.
By Donna Plunkett St. Clair
Posted to Lewy Body Dementia Canada
May 29, 2016
Robin