Home or assisted living care?

Advanced illnesses, physical safety needs, and the 24-hour demands of final stage caring often prompt additional in-home interventions or out-of-home placement. Although many caregivers want to keep their loved ones at home, this requires stamina, space, and considerable support from others.

Although there are no right or wrong answers, multiple changes can be especially difficult for a patient with advanced dementia. Adjustment to placement is easier before the end stage. Care and placement decisions should reflect the patient's current needs, plans for her eventual death, and the caregiver's health, financial, and emotional needs.

Fortunately, many resources are available to help you with placement and service options. See the related links section below, and contact your area Alzheimer's Association for a care consultation.

Can you take care of the person with Alzheimer's disease at home?

* Is qualified, dependable support available to insure 24 hour care?

* Will your home accommodate a hospital bed, wheelchair, and bedside commode?

* Are transportation services available to meet daily needs and emergencies?

* Is professional medical help accessible for routine and emergency care?

* Are you able to lift, turn, and move your loved one?

* Can you meet your other responsibilities and your loved one's needs?

* Are you emotionally prepared to care for your bed-ridden loved one?