Assisted Living Security: The Complete Package

Balancing the security needs of an assisted living facility, which can include a blend of independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing services, can be a complex issue. Residents and staff need to move throughout the facility freely, while unauthorized people are kept out.

Keeping track of staff, residents (some of which may have dementia and Alzheimer’s), and visitors with a comprehensive security system should include the following:

Video Surveillance

• oAssisted living facilities are full of activity, the constant coming and going of staff, residents and visitors, it can be a challenge to keep an eye on everything. Using a video surveillance system with a DVR would allow staff to see past events, if there is a question related to patients, visitors or staff.

Access control

• oInstalling readers at entries and cabinets, and distributing credentials, such as fobs, swipe cards, and proximity cards to staff will limit access to restricted areas, such as medicine cabinets, offices, supply rooms and medical records.
• oUsing an access control system will eliminate the replacement of keys and locks when a key is lost or stolen, or when an employee leaves. Credentials can quickly be deactivated.

Fire alarms, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

• oFire alarm systems and detectors are lifesaving components, when tied to a monitored security system they become even more effective.

Monitoring service

• oThe security system should be connected to a central monitoring station. When an alarm is tripped emergency services can be notified quickly, reducing the response time.
• oIn unpredictable situations, it is imperative to have the quickest response possible. This is especially critical in an assisted living facility as residents are slower moving and may have impaired hearing and eye sight.

Wander Detection

• oPatients wearing a wander detection device will alert the nursing staff when they are to close to a controlled door, the patient can then be refocused.

Nurse Call Systems

• oCommunication linked between residents and caregivers allowing residents to call for emergency assistance with the push of a button or the pull of a string.

Panic Notification

• oThese buttons should be placed in strategic locations throughout the facility.

Medical Emergency Response Systems

• oA wearable two-way voice emergency pendant or keychain like device, press a button and a trained emergency operator will respond.
• oSome devices are motion sensitive and can detect when a person falls down.

A comprehensive security system is essential for protecting residents, staff, visitors, medical records, physical assets and facility property. Call today for a full evaluation of your existing security system.