Dementia care for assisted living communities is becoming a popular alternative to nursing homes. A person diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer's disease often has no physical disability until the later stages of the disease process. A person with dementia can remain in the early stages of the disease for many years, but needs additional support. Assisted living environments offer a more home-like and non-clinical environment. A variety of changes should be incorporated when a dementia resident lives in an assisted living facility.
Floor Plan
A wide open floor plan is recommended. Many communities are built with a large main hallway in the shape of a circle or square. Residents are able to walk the hallways without ever meeting a stopping point. Residents often become agitated when a single hallway or locked-in area is used for living space. All community rooms should be labeled with signs identifying each room including dining rooms, bathrooms, beauty parlors and living rooms. Have pictures of residents during different times in their life next to the resident's bedroom. Print the resident's name in large print as well as a brief biography. The biography and pictures will help the residents identify their room, but also allow the resident to show off life achievement. The pictures and biography can also be subtle reminders of past accomplishments.
Snacks
Provide snacks and hydration throughout the day; dementia residents have decreased appetites and often forget to eat. Serve a variety of finger foods and beverages. Allow residents to assist with making the foods and serving the snacks. For example, residents can put together simple fruit salads or bake cookies that can be enjoyed later. Have a cold pitcher of water available for staff to offer to residents throughout the day. Add a small amount of fruit or juice for flavoring.
Toileting
Ask dementia residents if they need to use the restroom on a regular basis. Have a toileting schedule in place. Many residents will forget where a bathroom is, or be embarrassed to ask for help. Often incontinence occurs, not as a physical symptom of dementia, but simply because the resident forgot use the rest room or was unable to find assistance.
Activities
Always have a wide variety of activities available for dementia residents to enjoy; activities can be used to divert residents if they become agitated or frustrated. Activities allow a person to remain productive and have a sense of accomplishment. Plan simple outings such as a breakfast at a local restaurant or a visit to the library. Invite speakers and guests to join the group for conversation and stimulation; inform all guests the residents are diagnosed with dementia. Play a variety of memory games to continue brain stimulation. Place activity baskets throughout the community for residents to use. Baskets can be based on a theme such as knitting, fishing, cooking or hunting.
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