How do you pick an ALF?

[nbcrusader]

I am reviewing a variety of assisted living facilities for my father. He is in the early stages of Alzheimer's and needs a little more of a safety net. There are dozens of facilities, some large, some small, some expensive, some REALLY EXPENSIVE. It is just a little overwhelming at the moment.

 

[BVS]

I totally thought this thread was about the little furry guy.

You might try talking to other people who have loved ones in facilities in the area you're looking. Talk to staff, that kind of thing.

I think it's one of those things you definately can't choose from looking at a brochure.

My Uncle who's now retired works at one. He loves it. He just does odd jobs around the place, drives the old ladies to places, and what not. The one he works at is a very close community. I think for me, that's the type of thing I would need to find out.

Sorry I couldn't help you out anymore...

It's a tough decision, my thoughts go out to you.

 

[BAW]

The first thing I can suggest is do your homework. Pretty wallpaper and a smiling staff doesn't always mean its a good facility, as we've found out recently.


This site has a searchable directory where you can find out about violations, complaints, who owns the facility and the ratio of patients to staff etc.

http://www.nursinghomeguide.org/NHG/nhg_q_overview.lasso



Like BVS suggested, talk to anyone you know who has had to make this choice for referrals...ask your neighbors, ask around at church. If you personally visit a site, take a good look at the residents and use your intuition. If it doesn't feel right, cross it off your list.

Ask about their safety record and how they deal with chronic walk-aways...really important at an Alzheimer's facility.

Good luck Doug. This is something no one looks forward to but its something that many of us will have to do someday.

 

[anitram]

Try your local Alzheimer's Society. They usually have lists of specialists and nursing homes which provide care for AD patients who do have different needs than other elderly people.

 

[Bonochick]

I sent you a PM. Hope it can be of some help.

 

[MrsSpringsteen]

My family had a very bad experience w/ one, the woman was the pushiest, rudest "salesperson" I've ever heard of. She wouldn't take no for an answer after my Mother had already chosen another place for her brother(this woman was the main reason why). Apparently some of those people work on commission or something. This woman even called the hospital and tried to get confidential information about him, just outrageous. This was a fancy, expensive place.

He ended up at a place that was beautiful, it looked like a five star hotel but there were still issues of course w/ some of the staff, and other issues. It is best if you have the luxury of time to do all the research you can before you pick one.

I'm sorry about your Dad

 

[Got Philk?]

NB,
I'm so sorry to hear about your Dad. My grandpa had Alzheimer's when I was going through high school and I remember almost every stage he went through. You'll surely be in my thought's and prayers.

I wish I could help you with your situation, but I'm only 23 and my parents aren't quite there yet. But I know I'm going to be the one who will be in your shoes later on so, I'm taking in notes for the future.

 

[nbcrusader]

NB,
I'm so sorry to hear about your Dad. My grandpa had Alzheimer's when I was going through high school and I remember almost every stage he went through. You'll surely be in my thought's and prayers.

I wish I could help you with your situation, but I'm only 23 and my parents aren't quite there yet. But I know I'm going to be the one who will be in your shoes later on so, I'm taking in notes for the future.

Thank you for your prayers.

Knowing family history helps you prepare for these events. My grandfather has Alzheimers for years before passing at age 86. My own dad is now 75 - I see him living for another 10 years easily. My challenge is to take what he has and structure it so it will cover ever increasing costs over the next decade. I wish he had long-term care insurance.

 

[nbcrusader]

My family had a very bad experience w/ one, the woman was the pushiest, rudest "salesperson" I've ever heard of. She wouldn't take no for an answer after my Mother had already chosen another place for her brother(this woman was the main reason why). Apparently some of those people work on commission or something. This woman even called the hospital and tried to get confidential information about him, just outrageous. This was a fancy, expensive place.

He ended up at a place that was beautiful, it looked like a five star hotel but there were still issues of course w/ some of the staff, and other issues. It is best if you have the luxury of time to do all the research you can before you pick one.

I'm sorry about your Dad

One thing I noticed at one of the places I visited was the number of "Marketing Directors" at the facility.

Assisted living is a growing market and there is a fair amount of competition for you health care dollar.

I did visit one place that was like a 5-star hotel of Alzheimers care. I'm so tired, I pondered checking myself in for a while....

 

[nbcrusader]

The first thing I can suggest is do your homework. Pretty wallpaper and a smiling staff doesn't always mean its a good facility, as we've found out recently.


This site has a searchable directory where you can find out about violations, complaints, who owns the facility and the ratio of patients to staff etc.

http://www.nursinghomeguide.org/NHG/nhg_q_overview.lasso



Like BVS suggested, talk to anyone you know who has had to make this choice for referrals...ask your neighbors, ask around at church. If you personally visit a site, take a good look at the residents and use your intuition. If it doesn't feel right, cross it off your list.

Ask about their safety record and how they deal with chronic walk-aways...really important at an Alzheimer's facility.

Good luck Doug. This is something no one looks forward to but its something that many of us will have to do someday.

Intuition is key when visiting the homes. I especially look for staff - patient interaction (do they know them by name, do they stop and talk, etc.) Also, the hygiene of the residents is telling.

I do appreciate how you and Mr. BAW have shared your story. It has given me strength to press on when things get ever more challenging. Thank you

 

[nbcrusader]

Thank you all for your advice and prayers....

 

[Bonochick]

I would like to commend you for all of the work you are doing to ensure the right kind of care for your father. There are a lot of people out there who just don't care enough to put forth that sort of effort. Your dad is lucky to have a son like you.

 

[MrsSpringsteen]

Assisted living is a growing market and there is a fair amount of competition for you health care dollar.

I did visit one place that was like a 5-star hotel of Alzheimers care. I'm so tired, I pondered checking myself in for a while....

Yes indeed, but they are also supposed to be in the business of caregiving and should have sensitivity above everything else. I had an experience after my uncle died w/ one of the directors at his place. I didn't in order to spare my mother but I really wanted to tell that woman off. Anyway, best of luck w/ everything. I hope for the best for you and your Dad. I understand how tiring it is, I dread when the time comes to deal with that sort of thing w/ my Mom.