My dad has moderate severe stage of ALZ - his memory is blank, can hardly communicate, but can still eat and do bathroom himself. Can easily become restless and seek any way to escape, he is on 24x7 supervision by caregiver (from the family) at home. All his doctors advise NH placement, preferably with memory unit. He has no assets/income (SSI only) and can only afford Medicare/Medical (he is in CA) bed. From what I understand, Medicare does not cover memory care and Medicaid/Medical sponsored memory care units in nursing homes are extremely scarce
Question: is there a chance that regular NH (without memory care) with Medical beds will accept him with his diagnosis and in his state and what might be cons of such placement?
Hope this answer makes sense. Was a long night and probably need more coffee. Best wishes to you and your dad.
He needs 24/7 supervision, prompting to manage his activities of daily living, appropriate socialisation and stimulation, and to be kept safe from harm.
How is the family caregiver coping so far? The ideal answer would be to hold out for one of those rare specialist dementia care places and to support the family meanwhile, but this may not be possible - what's the situation?
I will be looking for NHs with memory units and, possibly, for some inexpensive board & care options - although, honestly, so far I am finding it hard even to find reliable lists of those. I will probably make a separate post about this problem
Thank you for your help!