What, then, of the more than 4 million Americans with Alzheimer's Disease and related conditions? Where should they live when they can no longer be cared for at home and when nursing homes are ill-suited to meet their needs or are unavailable? A new model of care What if you could create a facility from the ground up, designed in every way for residents with dementia? What would it look like? And how would the community respond? Physical considerations A home-like environment, the ability to participate in and enjoy meaningful activities which are relevant to one's life experiences, unrestricted space to move and walk in, space to socialize and enjoy the company of others, as well as quiet, personal and private space: these are essential ingredients for any healthy home. Also essential are the elements of safety, particularly for older individuals with some visual impairment and musculoskeletal limitations: well lit public areas, the absence of steps, wide corridors with railings, bathrooms with tubs that can be stepped into without the need for a hoyer lift, and other modifications such as grab bars to promote safe access and freedom of movement. Social considerations Nursing homes were built to house medically ill individuals in need of nursing care. As a result, they emulate a hospital model. Unfortunately, this has resulted in the "medicalization" of non-medical activities. For example, a doctor's order is needed for everything from allowing the resident to go out on a "pass" with family to permitting the resident to be "helpful" by assisting with everyday activities in the facility. Although dementia is a medical illness which becomes progressively worse over time, it only effects the brain, and it effects certain parts of the brain selectively.

Continue  |  Back