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continued:

Alzheimer's: Consider options for long term care

Choosing the type of care

To determine which type of care is best for your loved one, consider the following questions:

  • Does your loved one need help preparing meals or taking care of other personal needs?
  • Does your loved one need help taking medications or managing other medical problems, such as heart disease or diabetes?
  • Does your loved one need 24-hour supervision or special care? If so, what type of skills must a caregiver have to provide that care?
  • Would you prefer a facility that specializes in Alzheimer's care?
  • How will you cover the costs of your loved one's care?

Keep in mind that some settings aren't designed for people who have Alzheimer's — and as your loved one's needs change, options for care might change as well. Any new care arrangement you make will involve blending your capabilities as a caregiver with your loved one's needs.

Sharing the burden improves care

Remember that seeking help can ease the physical and emotional burdens of caregiving — and the earlier you consider the options, the better. If you wait until a crisis arises, you might be pressured to make a hasty decision. Instead, take time now to evaluate your loved one's future options.

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References
  1. Steps to choosing long-term care — Step 1: Assess your needs. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. http://www.medicare.gov/LongTermCare/Static/Step1.asp?dest=NAV%7CSteps%7CStepsOverview%7CStep1#TabTop. Accessed Jan. 29, 2013.
  2. Types of long-term care choices — Overview. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. http://www.medicare.gov/LongTermCare/Static/TypesOverview.asp. Accessed Jan. 30, 2013.
  3. Respite care. Alzheimer's Association. http://www.alz.org/care/alzheimers-dementia-caregiver-respite.asp. Accessed Jan. 30, 2013.
  4. Designing a care facility. Alzheimer's Association. http://www.alz.org/professionals_and_researchers_designing_a_care_facility.asp. Accessed Jan. 30, 2013.
  5. Caregiver stress. Alzheimer's Association. http://www.alz.org/care/alzheimers-dementia-caregiver-stress-burnout.asp. Accessed Jan. 30, 2013.
  6. Residential care. Alzheimer's Association. http://www.alz.org/care/alzheimers-dementia-residential-facilities.asp. Accessed Jan. 30, 2013.
AZ00028 April 4, 2013

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