About one out of ten U.S. Citizens over 65 years old and almost half over 85 develops Alzheimer's disorder. Putting a family member who has Alzheimer's disorder in a nursing home is an emotionally rending decision. But when your spouse , mother or father has advanced in this disorder to the point that it is too difficult to care for him at home it is the best decision. The safety and health of your family member is at risk when he or she can't be left alone.

This disorder progresses from one stage to another affecting the way the brain functions so Alzheimer's patients need specific care beyond the normal care a nursing home provides. For assistance in finding a good Alzheimer's nursing home go to the Medicare and Medicaid Services website. They also provide information about Special Care Units and a checklist to guide you when visiting the nursing homes.

There are two kinds of nursing home that take care of Alzheimer's patients. One is the skilled care facility and the other is the long term care nursing home. Medicare pays for the skilled care nursing home stay for as long as one hundred days and this won't do for long term care. They usually pay  100% during the initial 20 days and a partial payment for the next 80 days. This is the usual nursing home where Alzheimer's patients are also treated and helped with basic bodily needs.

The long term care Alzheimer's nursing home provides care for the patient 24/7 including observation. The patient is watched more closely to insure his or her safety. No minute goes by when the patient isn't being watched. When the disorder is advanced this is the type of care that is needed. Doctors and nurses that are specifically trained in the care of Alzheimer's disorder work in these nursing homes.  This kind of health care has to be paid for with private funds.

The Alzheimer's nursing home may be for patients with dementia too. These facilities supply specific living arrangements for people suffering from memory impairment that causes them to lose the ability to communicate and care for themselves. They provide activities and care that helps to increase memory and mental stimulation.

Since there isn't a special licensing regulation for a facility to name itself an Alzheimer's and dementia facility be careful when choosing one. There are free-standing facilities and some assisted living and nursing homes have an Alzheimer's unit.

The Alzheimer's Association has a 24 hour helpline (1-800-272-3900) that you can call to get a booklet that offers guidance in caring for someone with the disorder. The Alzheimer's Foundation of America also provides information about caring for a loved one with the disorder. Their toll free number is 866-AFA-8484.

If you have a loved one that suffers from Alzheimer's disease or you think is developing it these organizations can help you handle the situation. Don't forget that the Medicare and Medicaid site also supplies good data and information to assist you in caring for your loved one.

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