[Rosie6]

[quote=aimeee]I think much depends on the particular ALF and the staff there and the same with nursing homes. If the family can afford to hire in some extra care that is often a good solution.[/QUOTE
Hello - I just found this web site , but I a m going to jump right in . . . have you thought baout moving the patient to an inpatient hospice residence? I work in one with 4 residents and 24/7 hospice staff - rate is compoarble to NH and care is phenomanal!

[BobL]

I have run into similar problems with patients as ALF's. Often, the problem becomes a financial one because some patients are often running low on financial resources and the addition of private caregivers can threaten their financial ability to stay at the facility. This is especially a problem when it has truely become their home and they wish to live out the rest of their days in this place.

If the patient is alert and oriented enough to understand the risks associated with staying in his/her current situation, then one should consider the patients right to make the decision to stay in his/her home even if you don't think that it is the right decision. If the patient does not have the capacity to understand the risks, then the situation is more complicated.

The sad part is that for the most part, LTC facilities are institutional in feeling and don't necessarily mean that the pt. will have any less falls. This is not to criticize LTC employees. It is just a fact. I worked LTC for 12 years. Great co-worker's but a frustrating environment. Too low on resources which translates in too little time to focus on the individual.

These situations are going to increase in number as the population ages. I hope that we can find better and more dignified ways to care for our elders.

[soapynurse@adel]

We had several ALF's who used our services. We did not provide continuous care unless symptoms were out of control. Luckily, over time, the staff became very well educated and appreciated our help. This was especially good because they followed our protocol and the patient was allowed to stay in familiar surroundings. Family members often chose to stay with the patient, often around the clock. Luckily, this worked out very well for all concerned.

Alice in VA