Alzheimer’s is a progressive and fatal brain disease. Alzheimer's destroys brain cells, causing problems with memory, thinking and behavior severe enough to affect work, lifelong hobbies or social life. By 2010, the number of California seniors with Alzheimer’s will near 480,000.

Many California families have asked Southern California Senior Resources to help them find a residential care facility or a skilled nursing home for their elderly loved ones with Alzheimer’s. There are several things to keep in mind when looking for senior housing options for seniors with Alzheimer’s.

Residential care facilities must be licensed by the state of California to be able to care for residents with Alzheimer’s. Residential care facilities licensed for dementia care vary in size from small (maximum of 6 residents) to large (80-100 residents). The smaller communities are often called Board and Cares. The larger communities are assisted living communities with Alzheimer’s/dementia care wings. Skilled nursing homes may also care for Alzheimer patients.

Residential care facilities and skilled nursing homes can provide all levels of care to seniors with Alzheimer’s. The main difference between residential care facilities and skilled nursing homes is the payment options. Residential care facilities are not allowed to accept funding from Medicare and Medi-Cal, while skilled nursing homes are.

Often seniors in need of Alzheimer’s care are a risk to wander. In this case it is important to find senior housing communities that have a locked area or special security set up to care specifically for these seniors.

Alzheimer’s can be treated the best when it is diagnosed and dealt with early on. Some residential care communities offer special activities and programs to help slow the progression of Alzheimer’s. For a senior who has been recently diagnosed and is relatively independent still, these communities offer a way for them to fight back against the disease and prolong their quality of life.

Call Southern California Senior Resources today to find the perfect Alzheimer’s community for your elderly loved one.