Albuquerque Assisted Living and Memory Care Services

Assisted Living Services

While we are not an assisted living community, we do offer the full range of assisted living services. Many of our residents are not physically impaired and simply need reminders and redirection. On the other end of the spectrum are residents who cannot even get out of bed on their own. For them, we must take care of everything. Prior to a resident moving in, we do a complete assessment, including obtaining physician orders and medical records. We also take a social history, so that we can become familiar with their likes and dislikes, as well as their past. After the first two weeks, we do another evaluation so that we are sure we’re taking care of the resident’s complete assisted living needs. Because we provide such comprehensive assisted living services, our residents can “age in place;” in almost every instance, they won’t have to move again; this can be their final home, which family members especially appreciate.

Alzheimer’s Care Services

We understand that there is no cure for Alzheimer’s and other types of memory impairments; however, we know from experience that we can help residents live comfortably, safely and with some sense of independence. Everything in our community is planned deliberately to support their needs, from the circular hallways to our bright and spacious courtyard area to our structured program of activities. In addition, our staff is highly trained to care for people with memory disorders. We know not to argue with residents, but instead join them in their reality. When “Miss Shirley” asks a caregiver when we are leaving for a trip, that caregiver might say, “Let me go and find out.” That kind of answer is calming and reassuring, resulting in less stress on the resident, less agitation and fewer “behaviors.” We know never to sneak up on residents; that could easily startle them. We always adjust our routines to theirs, never the other way around.

Our caregivers also take the time to get to know the resident’s life story. By understanding who they were in the past, we can better understand where they may be coming from now. We also do everything possible to help them look good, taking the time to help them dress right, put on make-up and do their hair – a critical part of helping them maintain their dignity. We remind ourselves that while they might not be aware of what’s going on, what if they were? In addition, we make every effort to help them maintain their independence. If someone is having trouble walking, two caregivers might hold their hands, rather than suggesting they go into a wheelchair. We encourage them to do whatever they can on their own, whether we simply remind them to brush their teeth or stand by while a resident ties her shoes, offering help only if absolutely necessary. As our Resident Care Director always reminds us, we are here for the residents first and foremost, and secondly for their families. But our residents are always our number one priority.