Making the decision for a loved one to enter a dementia care facility or access further support including residential care is never easy; it’s a complex decision that involves many factors, including your loved one’s needs and and the availability of suitable care options.
Here at Ambridge Rose, we’re experienced in dementia care, and have outlined some of the key considerations to help you make an informed decision about dementia care.
Understanding dementia progression
Dementia is a progressive condition, and its symptoms typically deteriorate over time. As the condition progresses, people with dementia may experience difficulty with:
- Memory loss
- Thinking and reasoning
- Language skills
- Judgement
- Daily living activities
The rate dementia progresses varies from person to person, but eventually, most people with dementia will need significant level of care and support.
Factors to consider for dementia care
When deciding whether it’s time for a loved one to move into a care home, we know there’s a lot to consider.
As dementia progresses, a higher level of care than what you can provide at home may be required. This may include help with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and eating, as well as medication management and supervision.
We know that your energy and availability to care for someone with dementia can be a significant factor, so if you find you are struggling to cope, it may be time to consider other support options.
When it comes to making a decision like this, the various types of dementia care homes, each with its own approach, is often a factor. It’s important to research your options and find a care home that meets your loved one’s needs and preferences.
Considering what your loved one will want is also an essential part in making your decision. If your loved one is still able to express their wishes, it’s important to involve them in the decision-making process.
Signs that it may be time for a dementia care home
Along with the above factors, there are several personal signs that it may be time to consider a care home for your loved one.
- Increased safety concerns: If your loved one is becoming increasingly unsafe, such as wandering off or forgetting to turn off the stove, a care home may be a safer environment.
- Difficulty managing daily activities: As dementia progresses, people may have difficulty with basic tasks such as eating, bathing, and dressing. A dementia care home can provide the necessary support and supervision for more comfortable living.
- Behavioural changes: Dementia can cause changes in behaviour, such as aggression, agitation, or increased confusion and restlessness at night. A dementia care home can provide a structured environment and specialised care to help manage these behaviours.
- Impact on your own wellbeing: Caregiving can be stressful and can take a toll on your physical and emotional health. If you are caring for a loved one living with dementia and find you are feeling increasingly overwhelmed, it’s important to seek support and consider other options.
Dementia care homes at Ambridge Rose
At Ambridge Rose, we offer dedicated dementia care facilities in East Auckland, The Beach House, The Cottage and The Villa. Each facility is fully equipped with a qualified healthcare team to support people living with any level of dementia, including providing dementia-friendly grounds, and offering diversional therapy activities designed to support cognitive function to enhance resident’s minds, bodies and spirits.
Learn more about Ambridge Rose’s care homes:
Additional resources
If you are considering moving a loved one into a dementia care home, there are a number of helpful resources available that can help you make an informed decision:
The decision to move a loved one into a care home is never easy. However, it’s important to remember that you are not alone. There are many resources and support services available to help you make an informed decision and support your loved one during this transition.