🇹🇷 Turkish 📅 2026-06-24 Guide

Choosing a Nursing Home for an Alzheimer's Patient

Choosing a nursing home for individuals with Alzheimer's disease requires a much more meticulous evaluation than a standard selection process. Safety, specially trained staff, and appropriate environmental design are of critical importance.

What is an Alzheimer's Care Unit (Locked Dementia Unit)?

Some nursing homes have separate, secure care units for Alzheimer's and dementia patients. These units include secure doors to prevent wandering, color-coded hallways, shock sensors, and special activity programs. Such a unit should definitely be preferred.

Staff Training

It is essential that staff caring for Alzheimer's patients have received special training in dementia care. During your visit, ask the staff: "What training have you received regarding Alzheimer's behavioral disorders?" If they cannot give a clear answer, stay away.

Security Standards

Are there locked/restricted sections? Are emergency call systems (call bells) in every room? What is the number of night shifts? Are the garden and outdoor areas safe (is there an escape barrier)?

Alert System and Family Communication

A good Alzheimer's unit regularly informs families: weekly health report, emergency call, right to unannounced visits. If these three are missing, that facility is not sufficient for Alzheimer's care.

Alzheimer Nursing Homes in Istanbul

Facilities specializing in Alzheimer's care in Istanbul are concentrated in Beşiktaş, Kadıköy, and Üsküdar. These facilities are generally priced between 40,000–75,000 TL/month and capacity is limited; early application is required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Gradually increase visits to ease adaptation. You can start with a day program and transition to overnight stays.

Yes, facilities with a special care unit are generally 20–40 percent more expensive than a standard nursing home. However, this difference is justified due to specially trained staff and security infrastructure.

Some state nursing homes have dementia units. You can inquire by calling ALO 182. Waiting lists are long.