Alzheimer’s special care units (SCUs)—also called memory care units—are designated sections of a facility that focus solely on residents with cognitive impairments.
These secure units are often included within an assisted living facility or nursing home and consist of trained staff competent in handling residents with cognitive disabilities. Sometimes SCUs are locked away from the rest of the facility to prevent wandering and elopement.
Colorado Regulations for Secure Units
The Code of Colorado Regulations has specific guidelines worth noting regarding secure units, which include the following:
Staff members shouldn’t place residents in secure units as a form of punishment
Staff should have written programs to treat residents admitted into a secure unit
Facilities must allow residents of secure units to have visitors.
Residents should be able to participate in organized activities in the secure unit.
Residents should only be placed into a secure unit if they are a danger to themselves or others, habitually wander off, or have behavior problems that disrupt other residents’ rights.