The Right Time to Move to a Memory Care Facility
We understand that moving someone you love to a memory care facility may be one of the most difficult decisions you will ever have to make. As you’re considering moving them to a memory care facility, you may experience a broad range of emotions. You may even be second-guessing your decision.Since Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia are progressive, there will eventually come a time when you can no longer provide care or it may no longer be safe for them to live alone. Knowing the key signs when it’s time to move can make all the difference. Keep reading to learn more.
If the condition of your loved one has worsened
One of the first signs that it’s time to move your loved one to a memory care facility is when you notice that their behavior changes. For example, they may:
- Suddenly start acting out,
- Often get lost or agitated,
- Seem confused about where they are, and who they are,
- Can’t hold a conversation,
- Have trouble sleeping through the night,
- Have lost significant weight,
- Forget to take their medication or take too much of it,
- Have incontinence issues.
If any of these red flags are present, it’s time to think about a move.
If your loved one struggles with everyday activities
If your loved one is having trouble managing everyday activities like getting dressed, preparing meals, eating, or washing, this is a clear sign that they may need to be moved to a facility.At this time, their needs may be becoming more complex, so they require extra help on a daily basis. They may need help eating and drinking, using the restroom, standing, walking, laying down, and taking care of personal hygiene. Memory care facilities include all of these services.
If you’re concerned about the person’s safety
Safety concerns may also be a sign it’s time to consider moving your loved one to a facility. As your loved one continues to hit the later stages of the condition, you may not be able to continue ensuring they're safe. Even simple daily activities like bathing, getting into or out of bed and cooking may put them in danger.Late-stage dementia also makes them more prone to wandering and confusion. The person may start walking down the street, and forget how to return home (or even where their home is).Memory care facilities are better suited for dementia patients whose safety concerns cannot be met in their own home. You don’t have to worry that your loved one will venture outside alone. The facilities feature locked and alarmed exit doors, monitoring systems, and enclosed outdoor spaces to ensure that all residents are as safe as possible.
If you’re no longer able to provide the full-time care that the person requires
Caring for an elderly family member who has dementia is both physically demanding and emotionally exhausting. Balancing the needs of the person living with dementia with your own needs is crucial for your own well-being.If you're constantly feeling drained, frustrated, overwhelmed, or even resentful towards them, this could signal that it’s time to transfer your loved one to a memory care facility.
If you want to provide your loved one with more comprehensive care
On top of taking care of the basic needs, it can be challenging to ensure that your loved one is getting enough bodily movement , cognitive stimulation or nutrition. Memory care facilities provide proper nutritious meals and ample low-key exercise opportunities through occupational therapy sessions as well as memory care activities which are essential for:
- Maintaining cognitive function,
- Avoiding malnutrition and dehydration,
- Strengthening the immune system,
- Boosting their mood, stress, and sleep,
- Reducing the risk of falls,
- Reducing potential bedsores, and
- Improving the overall quality of life.
When you’re balancing work with caregiving, taking care of all of these things can be burdensome, so moving your loved one into a memory care facility might be the right thing to do.
If your loved one needs more opportunities for social activities
Research from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention suggests that social isolation can worsen dementia symptoms. Looking after a loved one with dementia makes it difficult for caregivers to provide enough opportunities for socializing. So, if you notice that your loved one withdraws from personal hobbies and social situations, they may need a higher level of care.Memory care communities emphasize socialization by offering recreational activities that are specifically designed for people with dementia. These activities are meant to reduce the risk of loneliness, depression, agitation and anxiety.We understand that the idea of moving a loved one into a memory care home can be frightening, but sometimes moving them into memory care might be the best option.That’s why, at Arbor Trace Memory Care Center in London, Ontario, we work with each resident and their family members to come up with a customized plan that is best suited to their unique needs.Contact us to schedule a tour for Arbor Trace retirement community and get informed about the right time to move your loved one to a memory care facility.