Care Options for Patients with Alzheimer's and Dementia

In England people diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease are usually cared for by the family in their own home in the early stages. There comes a time however, as the disease progresses and the behavioural pattern becomes more difficult to cope with, when carers find they can no longer cope with their relative's forgetfulness, odd behaviour and possible aggressiveness.

If you are a carer in this situation contact your relative's care manager and seek advice. They will be able to tell you which kind of home would be most suitable for them and give you a list of appropriate homes.

An EMI Home (Elderly Mentally Infirm)

An EMI home is usually the home where residents with dementia or Alzheimer's disease are cared for. A person suffering in this way will be happier in this type of home than in a nursing home. There are Registered Mental Nurses (RMNs) who are specially trained to care for residents with this kind of illness on duty at all times. They know how best to help and care for the residents.

Residential Care Homes for Elderly Folk with a Mental Disorder

These homes cater for elderly residents who suffer from such illnesses as depression or schizophrenia.

Some of the residents need to have regular medication administered by injection, usually fortnightly or monthly. The Community Psychiatric Nurse (CPN) visits frequently to monitor the residents, to give advice if necessary and to give the injections as they become due.