Deciding that it is time to move a loved one into a care home is never an easy decision, but ultimately, it is often the best choice for everyone involved. The process is fraught with feelings of guilt, anxiety, and uncertainty. However, recognising that you can no longer provide the necessary care for your loved one is a significant and brave step. It demonstrates that you are prioritising their health and quality of life.
Reaching this point can be challenging, particularly when trying to determine the right time to make this move. So, when is it time? Typically, signs indicate it may be time to consider residential care and healthcare options. These include:
More Frequent Falls or Injuries
Whether your loved one lives with you or independently, an increase in accidents and falls is one of the most common signs that it may be time to start thinking about a care home. These incidents could result in hospital visits or frequent bumps, scrapes, or even burns from cooking. At this point, you must consider their safety and ensure they are living in an environment where the chances of harm are minimised.
Declining Hygiene Standards
As people age, bathing or showering can become more challenging, especially if there are no accessible amenities such as step-in baths, handrails, or shower seats. Older individuals may be too stubborn to accept that this is a problem. However, it is often detectable by sight or smell. Having an honest but considerate conversation about this issue can help address it.
The House is a Mess
Similarly, household chores can become more difficult, leading to a buildup of dust and a general decline in the upkeep of the home. This can be easily spotted, especially if your loved one was once very house-proud. While this might not be the most significant concern, it is a small sign that living independently is becoming more challenging for them.
Weight Loss or Gain and Changing Eating Habits
Cooking can become more difficult, leading to improper eating habits or not eating at all if going to the kitchen requires too much effort. This can be problematic as a lack of proper nutrition can lead to serious health problems, increase the risk of conditions such as dementia, and cause mobility issues. Therefore, it is important to address this issue, and a care home where nutrition is prioritised can be the best step.
Problems with Toilet Habits
If your loved one is finding it difficult to get to the toilet in time, leading to incontinence and bedwetting, having assistance can be hugely beneficial for their mental health. Struggling with bowel control or lacking the mobility to reach the toilet can cause shame and embarrassment. No one should suffer from such problems, which are natural as we age. Having help and people on hand 24/7 in a care home can rectify this issue, restoring their dignity.
Forgetting to Take Medication
Forgetting or refusing to take medication can have serious health implications and even risk their life. If this issue arises with your loved one, it cannot be ignored. By ensuring they take their medication, a care home with trained professionals can provide peace of mind and improve their quality of life.
Are YOU Struggling as a Carer?
Lastly, consider your own well-being. If you are the primary carer for your loved one and it is proving too difficult, causing too much stress, or impacting other areas of your life, it may be time to seek help. This applies to other family members or friends providing care as well. Juggling all aspects of your life as a carer can increase anxiety, stress, and cause problems in relationships, careers, and your own physical health.
Seeking help not only benefits your loved one but also you. Professional support ensures they receive the best possible care, and you can dedicate time to living your best life and giving attention to younger family members.
In-Depth Understanding of the Signs
Let’s delve deeper into these signs to better understand why they indicate a need for professional care and how a care home can address these issues.
- Frequent Falls and Injuries – Frequent falls and injuries can indicate deteriorating balance, coordination, or muscle strength. This decline can be due to various health issues such as arthritis, osteoporosis, or neurological conditions. In a care home, staff are trained to provide support and create a safer environment. They can offer physical therapy, ensure the home is free of hazards, and provide assistance with mobility aids.
- Hygiene and Personal Care – Declining hygiene can be a sign of physical limitations or cognitive decline. In some cases, it might also indicate depression or other mental health issues. Care homes provide support with daily activities, ensuring that residents maintain personal hygiene. This assistance helps prevent infections and other health issues related to poor hygiene.
- Household Management – When household chores become unmanageable, it might be a sign of physical limitations or cognitive decline. A messy home can also pose risks, such as tripping over clutter. Care homes take over these responsibilities, ensuring a clean and safe living environment. This allows residents to live in a dignified and comfortable manner.
- Nutritional Needs – Proper nutrition is crucial for maintaining health and preventing diseases. Malnutrition can weaken the immune system, increase the risk of falls, and exacerbate existing health conditions. Care homes provide balanced meals and monitor dietary needs. They ensure that residents receive the necessary nutrients, which can improve their overall health and well-being.
- Toileting and Incontinence – Incontinence and difficulties with toileting can lead to skin infections, urinary tract infections, and significant discomfort. These issues can also affect a person’s dignity and self-esteem. Care homes provide support with toileting needs, ensuring cleanliness and comfort. This support helps maintain the resident’s dignity and prevents health complications.
- Medication Management – Medication adherence is critical for managing chronic conditions and preventing complications. Forgetting or refusing to take medication can have serious consequences. In a care home, staff ensure that residents take their medications as prescribed. This supervision helps in managing health conditions effectively and preventing medical emergencies.
- Carer Stress and Burnout – Caring for a loved one can be physically and emotionally demanding. It can lead to burnout, affecting the carer’s health and well-being. By transitioning a loved one to a care home, carers can relieve some of the stress and focus on their own health and other responsibilities. This decision can improve the quality of life for both the carer and the loved one.
Benefits of Professional Care in a Care Home
Professional care homes offer numerous benefits that can address the issues discussed above. Here are some key advantages:
1. Safety and Supervision
Care homes are designed to be safe environments for elderly individuals. They have safety measures in place to prevent falls and accidents. Additionally, round-the-clock supervision ensures that any emergencies are promptly addressed.
2. Personalised Care Plans
Each resident in a care home receives a personalised care plan tailored to their specific needs. These plans include medical care, dietary requirements, and personal preferences. This individualised approach ensures that residents receive the best possible care.
3. Social Interaction and Activities
Isolation and loneliness can significantly impact mental health. Care homes provide opportunities for social interaction through various activities and events. Residents can engage in hobbies, participate in group activities, and form friendships, which enhances their overall well-being.
4. Access to Healthcare Services
Care homes have healthcare professionals on staff or on call, ensuring that residents have access to medical care when needed. This immediate access to healthcare services can prevent complications and provide peace of mind to families.
5. Nutritional Support
Balanced meals and proper nutrition are essential for maintaining health. Care homes provide nutritious meals tailored to the dietary needs of residents. They also monitor food intake to ensure that residents are eating properly.
6. Assistance with Daily Activities
Daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and grooming can become challenging with age. Care homes provide assistance with these activities, ensuring that residents maintain their hygiene and dignity.
7. Mental Health Support
Mental health is just as important as physical health. Care homes provide mental health support through counselling, social activities, and a supportive community. This support can help residents manage depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.
Making the Transition
The transition to a care home can be emotionally challenging for both the individual and their family. Here are some tips to make this transition smoother:
1. Open Communication
Have open and honest conversations with your loved one about the need for professional care. Address their concerns and fears, and involve them in the decision-making process as much as possible.
2. Visit Care Homes Together
Tour different care homes with your loved one to find the best fit. This involvement can help them feel more comfortable with the decision.
3. Gradual Transition
Consider a gradual transition. Start with short stays or day visits to the care home to help your loved one get accustomed to the new environment.
4. Personalise Their Space
Bring personal items from home to personalise their space in the care home. Familiar items can provide comfort and make the new environment feel more like home.
5. Stay Involved
Continue to stay involved in your loved one’s life. Visit regularly, participate in care home activities, and maintain open communication with the staff.
Deciding to move a loved one into a care home is a difficult but often necessary decision. Recognising the signs that indicate the need for professional care can help ensure the safety and well-being of your loved one. Care homes provide numerous benefits, including safety, personalised care, social interaction, and access to healthcare services. By making this decision, you are prioritising the health and quality of life of your loved one, as well as your own well-being.
If you have spotted any of the signs mentioned above and would like to know more about nursing care, do not hesitate to get in touch with our expert team at Valorum. We can discuss how we can best support your loved one and help you make the best decision for their care.