Every year thousands of families are faced with the difficult circumstances and decisions that come with Alzheimer disease. For support, guidance and a helping hand, contact your local chapter of the Alzheimer Society at (403) 250-1303 or toll-free 1-888-233-0332, or by email at provincial@alzheimer.ab.ca . . . they can help you understand the disease better and the most appropriate alternatives for your mother.

It's never easy determining when the time is right to find an alternative living arrangement for a loved one with Alzheimer disease but a basic rule of thumb . . . if you're concerned about your mother's safety, health or general well-being, then there's a good chance that it's time, particularly should you feel that she is at risk of wandering from her home. One thing to keep in mind is that while competent, your mother should be given the opportunity to be involved in decisions relating to her future living arrangements and care.

Ultimately, to ensure that the best decisions are made, it is advisable to seek professional help. A functional assessment of your mother's needs, strengths and abilities, social circumstances, safety and security, as well as the degree of support realistically to be provided by family, should be undertaken. I recommend that you contact your local Regional Health Authority at 403-943-1110; they should be able to help you in this regard.