Dementia is a cruel beast. In fact, watching a loved one live with it can be heartbreaking to see, and there will come a point in their life where you will have to make decisions about the care of them.
While initially, a family may be able to help and provide support, do chores and so forth, as the condition develops, understanding when to take that next step into care can be both overwhelming and challenging. Therefore, it’s important to know what to expect, prepare for the transition, and find the right support for them.
So, if you have a member of the family with dementia, here are the things to consider when taking that step into permanent care…
Recognizing the Signs
It’s important to understand that dementia progresses in stages, and while at first people can continue to live independently and with minimal assistance, as the disease advances, daily routines can become more difficult, such as struggling with personal care, managing medication, and even keeping themselves safe in the home.
It’s important to understand at what stage care may be necessary, and signs that suggest it might include:
- Frequent disorientation or confusion.
- Wandering, especially during the night.
- Increased agitation, aggression, or anxiety.
- Inability to manage personal hygiene or basic needs.
- Social isolation or withdrawal.
- Unsafe behaviors, such as leaving appliances on or forgetting to lock doors.
Changes may happen gradually or fairly rapidly, but when the above begins to happen, it may be that the care family members provide isn’t sufficient and that more formalized care is needed.
Exploring Care Options
When caring for a loved one with dementia, several care options are available, each offering different levels of support depending on the individual’s needs. The key is to find the solution that ensures safety, dignity, and quality of life.
Home Care Support
Many families opt for home care, where professional carers assist with daily tasks while allowing the person with dementia to remain in familiar surroundings. This can range from occasional visits to round-the-clock care, depending on the individual’s needs.
Home care offers flexibility and can be particularly beneficial in the early stages of dementia when the person is still largely independent but needs some help with specific tasks.
Respite Care
Caring for someone with dementia can be emotionally and physically exhausting, especially for family members. Respite care provides temporary relief, whether for a few hours or several days. This can be an excellent option for carers needing time to recharge while also ensuring their loved one receives professional care in their absence.
Residential or Nursing Care Homes
For those with more advanced dementia, a residential home or nursing home that can provide dementia care may be the most appropriate option. These facilities offer 24-hour support, with staff trained in dementia care. Nursing homes, in particular, can provide specialized medical care if the person has additional health needs alongside dementia.
Choosing a care home can be difficult, so visiting several facilities and speaking to staff, residents, and families of other residents can help in making an informed decision.
Supporting the Emotional Transition
For both yourself and your family member with dementia, there will be a range of emotions going through the mind. It can be a confusing time for your loved one and one in which they feel their independence is being robbed of them. However, it’s important to note that it’s the right step to getting the best care and ensuring they are safe.
Involving your loved one in the decision making process can be a good way to provide them with a sense of control and comfort during the process, while both yourself and them need to be reminded to be patient when it comes to making the adjustment into new routines and environments.
You yourself may have guilt, sadness, relief and many other forms of emotion, so it’s vital that you acknowledge those emotions and deal with them. Seeking professional care is not you abandoning your loved one. It’s you ensuring they get the help they need.
Finding Support for Yourself
Caring for someone with dementia can be isolating and stressful, so it’s vital to seek out support. Local carers’ support groups, dementia charities, and online communities can provide advice, share experiences, and offer emotional support. Organizations like Dementia UK and the Alzheimer’s Society in the UK have resources for carers, offering practical guidance and emotional assistance.
