17 July, 2012
Bipartisan legislation co-sponsored by Representative Carolyn Dykema providing increased protection for residents in dementia care units was signed into law on July 16 by Governor Patrick.
“This law closes a loophole in Massachusetts law that allowed nursing homes to advertise specialized dementia care units, even though their workers may have had no training in caring for such patients,” said Rep. Dykema. “Massachusetts consumers deserve to know that when their relative is in a “special dementia care unit” they will be receiving care that meets the highest level of standards.”
This new law will ensure safe care and quality of life for those impacted by dementia diseases by setting in place minimum standards of care and training for those in Special Dementia Care Units in nursing homes across the Commonwealth.
"This bill will bring improved quality of care for those with Alzheimer's and increased peace of mind for those who love them," said James Wessler, president/CEO of the Alzheimer's Association, MA/NH Chapter. "We are so grateful to our champions in the legislature who made it possible."
