Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Families rightly have many questions about placing their loved one in an assisted living facility for those with Dementia or Alzheimer’s. With this in mind, Heartfelt Home has created this list with some of the most frequently asked questions we receive from potential residents and their families. Please feel welcome to contact us should you have any other questions or need any further information.

How do I know when the time is right to move someone to a facility?

We believe that it depends on those caring for them and their ability to cope, both physically and emotionally. It is almost impossible to manage someone all by oneself. It is also not ideal to leave someone with Alzheimer’s or Dementia alone.

Do you complete an assessment before moving in?

Yes, however, not with the potential resident but rather with the families. There are a series of forms to fill in. We like to get a sense of who the person was, and is currently, to provide them with the best possible care. This includes taking into account their idiosyncrasies and preferences.

How soon can residents move in?

Heartfelt Home does not have a waiting list. We currently have space, and potential residents can move in as soon as the necessary forms have been filled in and medical history provided.

What is the cost of care?

The reality is that it is expensive as specialised, personal 24-hour care is costly and labour-intensive.

How many staff members care for each resident?

We have six trained carers who look after a total of 20 residents. They work alongside a nursing sister or facilitator who is always on hand. We also have a dedicated assistant as well as an in-house cook and laundry lady.

What type of security and safety measures do you have in place?

A well-constructed fence with electronic gates secures the perimeters. We also have CCTV cameras throughout the building to ensure the safety and well-being of each resident.

What are your visiting hours?

We welcome visitors anytime, however, the more suitable visiting hours are from 10 am to 12:45 pm or from 3 to 5 pm. If visitors are in the area, they are welcome to pop in at any time any day of the week.

What is the difference between Dementia and Alzheimer’s?

Dementia is an overriding term for a lack of cognition.  This can be caused by various factors, including a stroke, brain tumour, or ongoing undiagnosed depression. Dementia may also occur from the overuse of alcohol or as a result of HIV.

In comparison, Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disease that slowly causes brain cells to degenerate and die, thereby disrupting a person's ability to function independently. According to the Mayo Clinic, Alzheimer's is the most common cause of Dementia.

How do the symptoms differ?

In time, the effect on the person is much the same. They experience short-term memory loss and a general loss of function.

However, Vascular Dementia, which is caused by a stroke, often leads to sudden drops in function. As a result of the transient ischaemic attack (TIA), he or she may suddenly not be able to speak or walk depending on where the damage in the brain occurs.

With Alzheimer’s, it is a more gradual long decline.

What is the life expectancy of people with Dementia or Alzheimer’s?

This is a very individual thing and depends on a person’s general health.

Do you offer end of life care?

Yes, we care for our residents to the end, and they are loved and at “home” by that stage. We have been blessed with very peaceful passings.