When should someone with dementia move into a specialist dementia care home?

Caring for a family member living with dementia is incredibly challenging, and there may come a time when moving into a care home becomes necessary. This decision can be difficult both practically and emotionally. Guilt and feelings of abandonment are common, and it can be hard to understand the wishes of a person with dementia, especially if their mental capacity is compromised.

At Northleach Court Care Home, we offer advice on when it might be time to consider a care home, who should make this decision and the benefits of moving into one.

When is the right time for a care home?

Knowing when it’s the right time can be a challenge. Every person living with dementia and their family’s and carers’ experiences are unique, so there is no definitive “right time”, so we have compiled some things to consider when it might be the right time.

Increased Care Needs

As dementia progresses, the individual’s needs increase. If your loved one requires more care and support than you can provide, it may be time for them to move into a specialist dementia care home. This decision is often necessary when they need 24-hour care and support for their safety and quality of life.

Creating a list of your loved one’s care needs can help. For example:

• Can they safely go outside on their own?
• Can you guarantee they won’t leave the house without assistance?
• Can they manage their medication independently without missing doses or taking incorrect amounts?
• Are they able to prepare and eat meals on their own?
• Do they recognise and avoid potential hazards, such as forgetting to turn off the oven or locking doors at night?

If you cannot meet these needs, it may be the right time to consider residential care. At Northleach Court Care Home, we provide 24-hour care, ensuring residents are safe and well-cared for.

Caregiver Burnout

Caring for someone with dementia is very demanding and can lead to caregiver burnout. While caring for someone with dementia can be a very personal and meaningful decision, it is also essential to prioritise your own mental health and self-care to avoid burnout, as the physical and emotional toll can significantly affect your health and relationships.

Finding a suitable dementia care home can alleviate this stress, allowing you to focus on a positive and meaningful relationship with your loved one.

Behavioural Changes

Dementia can lead to significant behavioural changes, making it challenging to keep your loved one safe. For instance, they may wander, enter other people’s homes, or behave unpredictably. In such cases, a specialist dementia care home with experienced staff can provide the necessary supervision and care.

Social Interaction

People with dementia often become isolated due to difficulties in communication and social interaction. Dementia care homes like Northleach Court offer a variety of activities to encourage social engagement and interaction, reducing feelings of isolation and improving overall well-being.

Benefits of Care Homes

Moving into a care home has several benefits for someone living with dementia:

Northleach Court Care Home, set in the beautiful countryside between Stourbridge and Kidderminster, provides specialist dementia care in a warm and welcoming environment. Our specialist dementia care and residential care services are designed to meet each resident’s unique needs.

Making the Decision

Ideally, the person with dementia should be involved in the decision to move into a care home. However, if they lack the mental capacity to make this decision, a Lasting Power of Attorney for Health and Welfare can enable you to make decisions in their best interests.

Planning can make this transition smoother. It allows you to consider your loved one’s preferences and find a care home that meets their needs. At Northleach Court, we encourage families to visit and meet our team to understand in detail how we can support your loved one.

Finding the Right Care Home

To find the best care home for your loved one, it is generally helpful to approach your local council’s social services department. Depending on your loved one’s financial circumstances, they can recommend appropriate care and conduct a financial assessment to determine available support.

Northleach Court Care Home offers a range of care options in a stunning Grade II listed building with beautiful grounds. Our dedicated team ensures each resident receives the highest level of care tailored to their specific needs. For more information on finding a care home for your loved one, please read our article here.