Selecting a Nursing Home

February 15, 2008

An elderly Hispanic man with Alzheimer’s disease was placed in a nursing home. He was a model resident except for a single quirk that confused his caregivers. Each morning this man would resist having his pajamas exchanged for daytime clothing. The institutional policy called for each resident to be neatly dressed during the day. This typically meek resident resisted the change of clothing and often became physically and verbally abusive.Following an investigation by personnel in the nursing home, an explanation was found for this seemingly paradoxical behavior. This man was a proud individual, who was described as “macho” by his family. Even with dementia, the notion that female caregivers would undress and dress him was entirely unacceptable to him. Once this sensitivity was discovered a male attendant was assigned for purposes of dressing and no further outbursts occurred.

More Facts

One of the greatest burdens for the family caregiver is the lack of knowledge of community resources and the ability to utilize these resources. In reality, the Alzheimer’s disease care system has been a fragmented approach designed to function on a crisis basis. The needs of the patient and the family have been poorly understood and have received little societal attention. To further complicate the situation, confusing eligibility requirements make it difficult to identify available services. Preparation well in advance of need and a careful review of potential nursing homes may save families much grief. Mental health agencies, the Social Security Administration office, state Area Agencies on Aging and local support groups are much needed sources of valuable guidance.

Posted in Alzhemier Disease