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This version was published on August 1, 2008
American Journal of Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementias®, Vol. 23, No. 4, 355-362 (2008)
DOI: 10.1177/1533317508315992

Transitioning Dementia Residents from Assisted Living to Memory Care Units: A Pilot Study

Susan G. Kelsey, MS

Department of Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, kelsey5{at}hargray.com

Sarah B. Laditka, PhD

Departments of Health Services Policy and Management, University of South Carolina

James N. Laditka, DA, PhD

Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of South Carolina

Our study examined the process of transitioning residents of assisted living facilities (ALFs) who have Alzheimer's disease or a related disorder to memory care units (MCUs). In-depth surveys with 10 ALF administrators in South Carolina were conducted. Grounded theory identified major themes; thematic analysis organized content. Most administrators used a preadmission screening process to assess cognitive status. About half reported that they discussed the possibility of future transfer to another level of care with the family at admission. Most administrators said that their facilities had transfer policies in place; of these, only two-thirds discussed their policies with families on admission. Transfer triggers included leaving the facility without anyone's knowledge, disturbing behaviors, and increased care needs. Challenges included family resistance and greater costs of MCUs. Assisted living facilities that were part of continuing care retirement communities used more multidisciplinary transfer decision-making than free-standing ALFs. Suggested improvements stressed educating families about dementia and MCUs.

Key Words: assisted living facilities • Alzheimer's disease • transitioning • memory care units • dementia care units • continuing care retirement communities


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