The Alzheimer’s Association-Greater Illinois Chapter recently released free online resource, Encouraging Comfort Care: A Guide for Families of People with Dementia Living in Care Facilities. This 21-page booklet provides information to families and staff of long-term care facilities about Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, particularly care issues related to the late and final stages.

For families, this guide offers information on informed choices about a variety of medical decisions they may face on behalf of loved ones with dementia living in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and other types of care settings. It is also intended to equip families with questions to ask about obtaining quality care for their loved ones, including a checklist of comfort care measures to be discussed with staff members of care facilities.

For staff , the guide will serve as a tool to help educate families and assist them in care planning. Individuals and organizations are encouraged to disseminate this booklet in electronic and print formats.

View and download the free guide at http://www.alzheimers-illinois.org/pti/comfort_care_guide.asp.