Placing a loved one in memory care is a difficult decision and affects the entire family. Unfortunately, it’s a decision that individuals often delay until the symptoms of dementia become more than they can handle. Then, the important decision of choosing the right placement for their loved one is made with intense urgency and severe stress.
Studies and experience have shown that it is better to create a placement plan for a smooth transition of care than to react to a crisis. In fact, early placement has multiple benefits for those living with dementia and their families. These benefits can make a huge impact on a person’s quality of life, safety and well-being.
Here are seven signs that it’s time to consider care setting options.
1. Unsafe Environment or Behavior
When a person has dementia, certain elements of their own home may no longer be safe. They may forget to turn off the stove, accidentally ingest cleaner or improperly use dangerous tools. Violent or aggressive behavior often means it is time for a safer option. This is usually due to loss of independence and control, which is something Arden Courts can help with.
2. Wandering
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 60% of people with Alzheimer’s will wander during their disease. This behavior can be extremely dangerous, especially if they forget how to get back home or if the weather is poor outside. The longer a person with dementia is lost, the higher their risk for mortality.
3. Unhygienic Habits
People living with dementia may struggle with self-care and hygiene. They may not properly shower, use the toilet, brush their teeth or groom themselves. This is an indicator that they need more continuous care.
4. Nutrition Concerns
Dementia presents unique challenges when it comes to getting adequate nutrition. If your loved one isn’t getting enough nutrition, they would likely benefit from meals designed for those with dementia. Food presentation, utensils, plating and sensory experiences should all be considered.
5. Isolation
Social isolation has a negative impact on an individual’s health. If your loved one with dementia is isolated, it could make their symptoms worse. New friends and experiences could refresh their spirit and keep them engaged in daily activities.
6. Failing Health
People living with dementia may struggle to take care of their own health. They may be unable to perform activities of daily living. They may forget to take their medication or take too much. This is a sign that dementia care may be needed.
7. Severe Stress
A dementia diagnosis doesn’t only affect the individual; it affects the family. Caring for a loved one can cause intense stress, anxiety, social isolation and depression. If caring for a loved one negatively impacts the health of others, a care setting could help everyone’s well-being.
Benefits of Early Care Intervention
Early dementia care intervention can make an impact on a person’s well-being, capabilities and prognosis. Once a person with dementia is placed in a dementia care setting, it’s common for families to wish they had begun intervention sooner. They see how an environment catered to those with dementia can help individuals thrive.
Here are some of the benefits of early placement in a dementia care setting.
Opportunities for Therapy
Exercising the mind, body and senses can help delay the effects of dementia and engage the abilities a person still has. Care settings with programming specific to those with dementia can help bring out the best in your loved one.
Independence
Independence is less about where a person lives and more about their freedom to safely engage with the world around them. In a dementia care community, individuals living can safely wander, socialize, enjoy familiar hobbies and explore new interests.
Personalized Health Plan
A dementia care setting can help ensure that your loved one’s health is supervised by trained professionals. They can assist with medications, arrange medical care and monitor your loved one’s health.
Nutritional Services
Nutrition is an important aspect of dementia care. In a dementia care setting, specialists can help individuals get proper hydration, maintain healthy blood sugar levels and modify meals to maintain a person’s independence as long as possible. The right diet has been shown to significantly improve quality of life in persons with dementia.
Hobbies and Individuality
With the right accommodations, a person with dementia can still take part in their beloved hobbies. It can even help them connect with their past and preserve their individuality. Communities like Arden Courts may host clubs or stage areas for residents to engage in hobbies safely.
Social Interaction
Dementia communities can foster socialization and community, through shared interests, mealtimes and special programming. For those who prefer individual activities, having others around can still bring benefits.
Caregiver Support
Caregivers need support and resources, too. Early placement can connect family members and friends with a community of people knowledgeable in dementia care and planning.
A Healthier Relationship
Being a caregiver for a loved one can be both rewarding and challenging. Placing your loved one in a care setting just means you are taking care of them in a new way. You can focus on being the spouse, child or friend, while dementia experts provide specialized, full-time care. Taking part in activities, dinners and special celebrations help family connect with their loved ones in meaningful and memorable ways.
Making the Decision for Memory Care
Remember, no two cases of dementia are alike. Finding the right time for placement in a care setting will depend on a person’s type of dementia and stage of dementia, as well as the needs of the individual and their family.
Financial Considerations
The financial aspect of placing a loved one in a memory care facility can be overwhelming. Remember, many financial options exist. Personal funds, VA benefits, life insurance, tax deductions and bridge loans are some of the ways individuals and families can cover the cost of memory care services.
At Arden Courts, memory care is all we do, but we understand that some families may need financial guidance. We’ll help connect you to resources so that you know all of your financial options before making a decision.
Is your loved one ready?
Sometimes, family members will wait for placement in the hopes that their loved one’s symptoms will improve. Unfortunately, that’s not the case with dementia. As the condition progresses, the person with dementia will experience more memory loss and will require full-time care.
If you’re unsure now is the right time, a memory care assessment can help you and your family better understand your loved one’s needs. Arden Courts provides assessments in an individual’s home or at one of our communities; call us at 888-427-7183 to schedule.