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STORIES ON HEALTH
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Assisted Living & Memory Care Communities
Assisted Living Communities
Offer help with non-medical
aspects of daily activities in
an atmosphere of separate,
private living units. In addition to
providing meals, transportation for
medical appointments, activities and
pleasure trips, assisted living may
supply: linens and personal laundry
service, assistance with dressing
and bathing, reminder regarding
medication, and assistance with
eating, transferring to and from a
wheelchair, toileting, etc. The best
candidate for assisted living is
someone who needs help with daily
activities, but doesn't need ‘round
the clock' skilled nursing care. The
ideal facility provides services and
personal assistance in a group
setting that helps its resident's lead
active, healthy lives. In many cases,
assisted living communities offer
extensive services for early stage
Alzheimer's disease patients. Private
pay rates vary depending on care
and services needed. A physician's
approval is required for admission.
Alzheimer's and Memory Care Communities
Alzheimer's is a progressive, degenerative
disease that attacks the brain,
resulting in impaired memory,
thinking and behavior. It is only
one of several forms of dementia.
Alzheimer's care communities are
special units or free-standing
communities designed to sensitively
care for those with Alzheimer's or
memory related disorders. These
communities offer safe and secure
residential care for those who need
24-hour assistance. Other senior
living environments may be
appropriate for residents in early,
or even mid stages of the disease.
However, unless they have a
specialized dementia unit, transfer
from another facility will be
required as the disease progresses.
A family's private resources or longterm
care insurance generally funds
Alzheimer's care communities.
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