Question

Identify and describe two types of behavioral health conditions that you might see in residents that reside in long-term care communities. What has CMS done to ensure that behavioral health services are provided to residents of nursing homes that need them?

Assisted living communities may specialize in care of residents with dementia and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Briefly describe the 3 stages of AD and how ALF administrators can provide specialized services to residents with AD.

Answer 1

Ans) Dementia, depression and anxiety disorders are the most common psychiatric disorders among older adults in LTC. Many psychiatric disorders appear to be more prevalent in LTC settings when compared to those observed in community-dwelling older adults.

- Residents' rights are part of the federal Nursing Home Reform Law enacted in 1987 in the Social Security Act. The law requires nursing homes to “promote and protect the rights of each resident” and places a strong emphasis on individual dignity and self-determination.

- Assisted living facilities provide sufficient care for individuals in the earlier stages of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. They may not have many medical problems but do need more intensive support for Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs), including activities we perform from day to day that add to our quality of life without being as basic to self-care as Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). ADLs are normal activities we must perform daily. Individuals with dementia may also need help with these tasks.

- In assisted living, individuals generally live in a private studio, private apartment, or a shared apartment, and have staff available to assist them 24-hours per day. This type of living arrangement is ideal for someone who can be mostly independent but needs assistance with ADLs. Transportation to and from doctor’s appointments and social activities are also offered at assisted living facilities. And assisted living facilities have dining halls where residents gather to eat meals.