Perhaps your loved one was recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia, and though they have not progressed rapidly in their disease, you sense that soon enough they will not be able to be left alone. Oftentimes, a family and friends decide to put their loved one in a residential care facility, and maybe that is now the right decision for you. So, you’ve done the research, found some facilities nearby and you’re going to take a tour. What should you expect when you get there?
Often, there is an alarm system on the doors at the facility. This is to prevent folks from wandering out of the facility when they are not with someone. A good facility often allows for its patients to wander the unit freely and will have a security system in place. It is helpful to ask about which entrance to use when you arrive, and if there is an alarm.
Some folks with Alzheimer’s or dementia will be very friendly and talkative with you, while others may be verbally hostile or have no interested in connecting. Each person’s disease manifests in its own way, and may present differently day-to-day. Remind yourself to be patient and understanding with each resident you meet, and that any odd-seeming behaviors are their disease talking.
Many facilities have fall-proof furniture. Folks with Alzheimer’s typically start losing control of their muscles and balance, and falling is a frequent occurrence. Since staff cannot be there for every moment and every stumble, furniture will often be extra padded, or have rounded edges, to soften falls as much as possible.
Residents can often appear worried or lost, and may ask anyone they run into questions like When am I leaving? or say that they must go. It is helpful to keep a kind demeanor and to say something positive and encouraging and not combative, for example, “Okay, but it is nice here, you’ll be okay for a while longer.” Residents may wander the facility and oftentimes go into their neighbor’s rooms. This is normal and usually regulated. In a good facility, staff is aware of each resident’s quirks and habits, and will frequently check in on the rooms to be sure everyone is safe and not bothered by neighbors
For more information on residential care facilities, Eldercare Answers is a great resource to help you find what you need in the Bay Area. They can be reached at 925-937-2018 or toll free at 866-760-1808. If you live outside of the area, they can connect you with resources to get what you need, or check out the Alzheimer’s Association website, for checklists of things to look for and questions to ask on your residential care facility tour.