One of the most common questions we get asked is, “When should someone with dementia go into a care home?” Firstly, Group Homes Australia offers permanent care in homess that feel like home, rather than a traditional nursing home or ‘care home’ environment. However, deciding when someone living with dementia should consider moving into a permanent care environment can be extremely difficult for families.
We explore some tips for identifying when a loved one’s care needs change, and how you can plan ahead.
Everybody’s journey is different
Dementia is a progressive condition, which means that symptoms will progress over time. However, it’s important to remember that there is no set rule book for how a person experiences the condition. Every person’s journey is unique. Generally, people experience cognitive decline, difficulties with memory and communication, and daily tasks can become more challenging. But everyone’s timeframe is different, so the decision to move to permanent care is very personal.
It’s important for support partners and caregivers and loved ones to carefully monitor the progression of symptoms to best identify when care changes are necessary. And always remember, a few storming days that are more challenging don’t always mean a permanent change is necessary. Rather, other adjustments around the home or to the way you do things may be more than enough.
Let’s look at some of the signs for when you might consider a move to permanent care.
When caring at home becomes overwhelming
Most people want to care for a loved one living with dementia at home, and there are so many benefits to staying close to family. But it can also be overwhelming for families as the condition progresses and providing support takes more of a physical and emotional toll. Being a support partner or caregiver might also affect someone’s work or health to the point where it simply is no longer a viable option.
It’s a good idea to consider extra support when providing support becomes too challenging. While it is always a difficult decision, there are options like Group Homes Australia that provide caring, compassionate, person-centric dementia care in warm, welcoming environments. It’s a chance for your loved one to get the care and support they need without sacrificing their comfort.
Daily tasks become difficult
Another sign of dementia progressing is when daily tasks become more difficult. For example, if a person is unable to manage things like bathing, dressing and eating, it can be a sign they need more support.
However, it’s also important to remember that dementia is progressive, so it’s expected that daily tasks will gradually become more difficult. So, always consider small adjustments to a person’s care first. Often, simple changes around the home or routine adjustments can negate the need for more intensive care straight away.
You’re concerned for your loved one’s safety
It’s natural to want your loved one at home with you for as long as possible, but it’s also crucial to consider their safety. As cognitive abilities decline, a person living with dementia may put themselves or others at risk without intending to. It could be something as simple as leaving the stove on, but it’s a good indicator that some changes may be necessary. Unmet needs can also lead to behaviours that become unsafe or challenging to support in the home.
When you feel that the safety risks are too great and you’re unable to provide the level of supervision needed, permanent care may be an option. At GHA, we understand that people living with dementia often have unmet needs that may create safety concerns. As such, we offer dementia-friendly environments and personalised care with a focus on the individual.
Plan ahead with respite care
As we’ve touched on, progressive changes are normal following a dementia diagnosis, and not every change necessitates a major change in care arrangements. However, if you feel that home care is becoming too challenging, respite is a useful option. Flexible respite allows people living with dementia to experience a different care environment and gives support partners the chance to refresh and reset.
Whether it’s a one-day stay or a week, respite is the perfect opportunity to plan ahead. This doesn’t mean moving straight to permanent care, rather it gives families and their loved ones the space to recharge and make informed decisions about future care, whenever the time is right.
Do you need help determining the best care levels for a loved one?
If you’re considering a move to permanent care, or you need further guidance in supporting a loved one, Group Homes Australia is here to help. Not only do we offer welcoming care environments that feel like home, but we also offer a range of support for families and caregivers. We understand that moving to permanent care is an emotional and often distressing experience, but we take every step to ensure all parties are comfortable.
If you’d like to know more about our flexible respite services, permanent care or planning ahead, contact the team at GHA today or give us a call on 1300 015 406.
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