When Should Someone With Dementia Go Into A Care Home?
It’s hard to know when should someone with dementia go into a care home. After all, dementia looks different for everyone, and the choice between independent living, home care and a care home can be challenging for families.
We understand that this decision can be overwhelming, and we want you to know that you are not alone in this. This is why we have put together this guide, which looks at the different options available to you and might help you make your decision.
Home Care For Those With Dementia
Domiciliary care, commonly referred to as home care is a great alternative if your loved one needs some support from the comfort of their own home. Home care can be a lifesaver for those who are struggling at home but don’t feel as though moving into a care home is the right choice for them.
This service can be weekly or daily depending on needs and is always adapted to the individual. As one of the common symptoms of dementia is the loss of memory and difficulty focusing on specific tasks. This means getting the correct change in a shop or even getting to and from the shops safely can be challenging.
Having someone take your loved one shopping and helping with this can allow them to keep their independence while ensuring their safety. They can also support your loved one with doing the things they love like looking after the garden or bringing them to a care home to visit their friends.
Home care nurses can also help your loved one ensure they’re eating balanced and nutritious meals at home and remembering to take any vital medications. Especially in the earlier stages of dementia, this can be a really good choice for those who just need a little extra support.
Respite Care For Those With Dementia
Respite care, or short-term care as it’s sometimes called, is an excellent way for your loved one to experience life at a care home for the first time. Although respite care is commonly used by those recovering from surgery, it’s also an excellent alternative for those with dementia.
This is also a good option as a transitional tool, as your loved one will have the chance to gradually become accustomed to new surroundings and meet new people. This can sometimes also be a great option alongside home care as a person’s dementia progresses and they require more support.
When Is The Right Time To Choose A Care Home For Someone With Dementia?
Knowing when should someone with dementia go into a care home is a personal choice. As we previously mentioned, there are no specific criteria or time scales, and dementia may progress at different rates for everyone.
Ask yourself the following questions:
In what ways might care staff be able to provide better care than you – for example, nursing or 24-hour care?
One of the great benefits of a care home is the constant support from a qualified team of experts who know how to care for your loved one. If you feel as though your loved one needs round the clock care, then a care home will probably be a good choice for them.
Have you spoken to the person about the move?
You might find they feel as though a care home could be a great choice for them. Or you might find that they aren’t able to communicate their needs with you.
Either way, it’s important to try and have this conversation and allow your loved one to be as involved in the decision as they can be. This is where trying respite care can be a great first step as they get to know the staff team and other residents before making a more permanent move.
What things make the person feel comfortable, safe and content? Does the care home you are considering offer these?
Does your loved one like music or spending time in the garden? Would they be more comfortable in a care home which offers a range of fun activities for them to join in with?
When you’re thinking about which care home might be the right fit for them, it’s important to look around and get a feel for the place. Ask lots of questions, try talking to other residents, and really take the time to get a good feel for the place before making a decision.
Is it safe for my loved one at home?
This is a really important question. As dementia progresses, it might no longer be safe for your loved one to be at home on their own for any period of time.
A care home can offer constant care and a safe environment where your loved one is not at risk of getting hurt or wandering away from home. In the later stages of dementia, it can be difficult for your loved ones to eat on their own and look after their own basic hygiene needs.
It’s important to weigh up all of your options and talk them through with your loved one as best you can. Choosing a care home is a really big decision, so you might also want to talk about this with someone who knows you and your loved one to get another perspective.
If you do make the decision that a care home is the best fit for your loved one, you can contact our team to come and look around. We also welcome you and your loved one to to visit us multiple times so you can get a feel for what life is like at Grosvenor House.
