How should I choose an Alzheimer’s treatment facility?

Much of the decision about where you get treated will be driven by your choice of specialist and whether you live in a region that is large enough to support specialized Alzheimer’s disease centers. Be sure to listen to the doctor’s reasoning behind a referral.

The worst reason is solely because it is a convenient location. You want convenience, of course, but not if you have to sacrifice high-quality standards for Alzheimer’s disease care and treatment.

When choosing a care facility for someone with Alzheimer's disease, keep in mind that not all specialized Alzheimer's care is equal. Try to see several facilities, if possible, and determine what makes each center unique. For up-to-date information on the wide variety of options available and how to evaluate them, check the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) Web site or contact the Alzheimer's Association.

When you visit a facility, ask plenty of questions, such as these:

• How is the program geared specifically for people with Alzheimer's disease?
• Are the caregivers trained in the treatment of Alzheimer's?
• Are caregivers assigned to particular residents?
• Is a team approach to care used? With whom would family members discuss different concerns?
• Is it a homelike environment?
• Are residents engaged in meaningful activities?
• Does the facility incorporate design features that can be helpful to those with Alzheimer's, such as enhanced lighting, color-coded hallways, and plenty of walking room?
• Is the environment safe? How secure is it for people who wander?
• How would an upset resident be handled?
• How many people live there? What's the ratio of staff members to residents?
• How long have staff members worked there? How much staff turnover occurs, and at what levels?
• Can medical care be given on site if needed? Who provides it? Skilled nurses? Visiting physicians? Under what circumstances is 911 called?
• What personal items can the resident bring?
• Are skilled professionals -- including registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and certified nursing assistants -- on duty at all times? What is weekend and holiday coverage like?
• How long and often may family members visit?
• What's the cost? Does the facility require you to pay privately? Are there any additional fees depending on the level of care required?
• If a resident needs to change to Medicaid funding after a few years, will he or she be able to remain at the facility?
• Under what circumstances would a resident be required to leave?