Saturday, November 15, 2014

What To Consider When Choosing Dementia Nursing Homes Phoenix AZ

By Young Lindsay


The term dementia refers to the wide category of mental illnesses that cause memory loss, loss of motor skills, and loss of judgment among other intellectual functions. This occurs if neurons suffer permanent damage or die. Alzheimers disease is the major ailment that causes dementia in people aged sixty five and above. The other things that can cause this condition include stroke, head injuries and long term use of alcohol.

Individuals who are living with dementia can stay at a nursing facility that specializes in caring for people who are mentally ill. Such a facility helps its residents to complete activities of daily living such as eating meals, bathing and taking medications to improve their way of life. When looking for dementia nursing homes Phoenix AZ dwellers should consider a number of things.

One of the things to consider is whether a nursing home offers person centered care. This approach aims to see a patient as an individual instead of focusing on his or her illness or the abilities he or she has lost. Person centered care takes the unique qualities, interests, needs and preferences of residents into account in order to bring out the best out of them.

The other factor to consider is if the members of staff or managers of a care home are able to recognize the emotional needs of people suffering from mental illness and respond to them in an understanding way. They should also know how to care for people with mental conditions, understand the difficulties that such patients face and help them explain their needs or wishes. Staff members should also be always present to speak with the person suffering from dementia.

Another important factor to consider is the ability of a nursing home to treat patients with respect and dignity. Good care homed have individual care plans that summarize the way in which staff members should encourage the strengths of residents while meeting their needs for support. They review such a plan regularly.

Another thing to consider when choosing a care home is the physical environment. The care home should be comfortable and homely. Even though an overly tidy and hotel style environment may initially impress you, consider that people with dementia usually need to have things that stimulate their interest. A facility that has objects on tables, pictures and offers opportunities for residents to perform household tasks like folding towels or dusting is suitable.

The spaces in the nursing home should also be clearly signed and laid out in order to reduce the distress or confusion that people suffering from dementia sometimes feel. You should also choose a facility that gives residents the opportunity to spend time outdoors. Fresh air, regular exercise and natural light are essential for the well being of any person.

The other thing to consider is the location of a care home. Choose a facility that you can easily get to and does not have restricted visiting hours. It is also important to choose a care home that is close to facilities such as parks, shops or clubs. Such facilities are ideal for residents who like going out. You should also choose a facility that is situated in an area that is not noisy.




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