What is a residential care facility for people with Alzheimer's disease?

Residential care facilities with programs for people with dementia have special features that make life easier for them. For instance, many facilities are designed to limit noise and have enhanced lighting to help reduce the effects of sundowning. Ample walking space accommodates wandering and diminishes the sense of being locked in. Outdoor courtyards may be designed with natural barriers, such as shrubs, so people with Alzheimer's disease feel as though they have free rein.

To give residents a greater sense of control, there may be cues to help orient them throughout the facility. Hallways may be color-coded, or "memory boxes," showing pictures or other mementos, may be affixed to doors to help people find their rooms.

Many of these facilities strive to keep people with Alzheimer's active and offer a wide array of activities that involve all residents at different levels of ability. The activities should be set up so they provide some meaning and enjoyment to the individual without too much stimulation or pressure to learn. Some examples include participating in arts and crafts projects, going through family photographs, engaging in appropriate exercise, singing, dancing, or listening to music. Even doing chores, such as folding laundry, may be enjoyable for some but meaningless to others.