FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions received by Banner Alzheimer's Residence, which is certified by the state of Arizona to provide Alzheimer's and dementia care.

Question: What kind of experience do you have in caring for Alzheimer’s patients?

Answer: The Director/manager is an adult psychiatric-prepared nurse practitioner who has worked in many long-term care communities in the East.  All our employees are certified caregivers who have completed a 64-hour course approved by the state of Arizona in caring for dementia residents. We are an active member of Arizona ALFA since 2002.

Question: How does this type of facility offer more benefits to Alzheimer patients rather than general assisted living?

Answer: The facility was designed by the Frank Lloyd Wright studio to bring in natural light.  From the lay out of the rooms to the safe, enclosed patio areas, everything has been designed for the comfort and safety of Alzheimer’s patients.  All staff is trained in dementia behavior management.

Question: How often are you inspected?  Can we view your inspection reports?

Answer: We are inspected yearly by the Arizona Department of Health Services.  All reports are public records—available on line or at the facility.

Question:  When can I visit?

Answer: Anytime

Question: What happens if my parent needs more care than they did when they were admitted?

Answer: Each resident is continually evaluated by the nurse and staff and their needs discussed at family meetings.  Since our philosophy is to have our residents age in place, additional services are provided, either by us or by outside agencies, like hospice, to meet the individual’s needs.

Question: What kind of security precautions do you take?

Answer: All our staff is subject to background checks and fingerprinting.  All three of our units are locked with access to a fenced-in walkway and patio.

Question: Does Medicare cover this?

Answer: No, Medicare covers only short-term sub-acute care.  However, most long-term care insurances cover.

Question: Do residents share rooms?

Answer: We have nine semi-private rooms in the facility.  In these rooms, each resident still has privacy due to the arrangement of closets.  Each resident has access to a large sunny window and their own vanity.  All they share is the commode.

Question: Is respite care available?

Answer: Yes, anywhere from one day to 30 days.

Question: What is included in the basic cost?

Answer: Based on the level of care, our cost includes:

•  medication administration
• use of our pharmacy or yours
• laundry
• transportation to local doctors
• nurse practitioner visits twice-weekly
• toiletries
• incontinence products
• use of our furniture or yours
• pet therapy
• local excursions for those able to attend
• family support groups