Guide to Selecting an Alzheimer’s Special Care Unit or Program

Special care units and programs are designed to meet the unique needs of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Choosing the right care option for your loved one can feel overwhelming, but asking the right questions and knowing what to look for can make the process easier.

How to Begin

• Visit several units or programs.
• Ask to see the latest survey/inspection report and the Alzheimer’s Special Care Services Disclosure form.
• Check if a volunteer ombudsman visits the facility.
• Visit at different times of the day, including mealtimes and weekends.
• Spend time observing and asking questions.
• Ask yourself: Would your loved one feel comfortable here?

Things to Observe

• Are individuals and staff happy and engaged?
• Do individuals appear comfortable and content?
• Does staff connect personally and meaningfully with individuals?
• Is the environment attractive, clutter-free, and not noisy?
• Does the food look and smell appetizing? How is it served?
• Are fresh water and snacks available?
• Are individual rooms homelike with personal belongings?

Key Areas to Evaluate

Philosophy of Care

• Does the unit’s mission clearly state the services provided?
• Can staff explain what makes their care unique?
• Do residents have needs similar to your loved one?

Admission & Discharge

• What are the admission criteria?
• What changes in condition would require a transfer?

Care Planning

• How are you and your loved one involved in care planning?
• How often is the care plan updated?
• Are family schedules considered for meetings?
• Is care delivered by a team with diverse skills?
• Are therapy services (physical, occupational, speech) available?
• How will you be informed of changes in condition?

Staff Training

• What Alzheimer’s/dementia-specific training is provided?
• Is training ongoing?
• How does staff handle challenging behaviors?
• Are they trained to personalize care?

Safety & Security

• What safeguards are in place for resident safety?

Physical Environment

• Is the environment clean and odor-free?
• Do residents seem comfortable?
• Is the atmosphere homelike?
• Is there space for social interaction?

Activities

• Are daily routines and lifelong patterns supported?
• Does staff engage residents in activities of their choice?
• Are individual and group activities available?
• Are there evening and weekend activities?
• Is there opportunity for social interaction?

Family & Friends Involvement

• Are visits welcome anytime?
• Can visits be private?
• Is there a family council or support group?
• Can family join meals and activities?
• Are pets allowed?

Costs & Payment

• Are basic costs explained?
• Are there additional fees?
• What payment types are accepted (private insurance, Medicaid, Medicare)?