When loved ones can no longer take care of themselves, it is often time to consider placing them in a residential care home. This decision requires planning and consideration. It also requires advance notice and preparation for the transition. Careful thought should be given before making this life-altering decision, because it may not be reversible once the process has begun. In this article, we will discuss some signs that you should consider placing your loved one in a residential care home.
1. Problems With Hygiene
If your loved one can no longer take care of themselves, including hygiene and nutrition, a residential care home may be a good option. Showering and bathing can become more difficult and dangerous over time, so a home that can provide assistance with bathing, toileting, dressing, and grooming can help your loved one keep up with their hygiene without the stress, effort, and worry of taking care of these chores on their own.
2. Difficulty With Nutrition
Eating healthy is crucial for people of all ages, but is especially important as we get older. Unfortunately, shopping for healthy groceries several times a month and cooking healthy & nutritious meals several times a day can become a difficult prospect for our older loved ones. At an assisted living home, meals are prepared and served throughout the day, ensuring each resident is well-fed and has the nutrition they need to stay healthy.
3. Mobility Challenges
If your loved one currently lives in a large home, or a home with stairs, getting around safely can become an issue. Fall risks are always present, and the thought of falling while alone with no way to get help is a scary prospect that can weigh on you and your family. At an assisted living facility, help is never far away, which can help reduce the risks of falls and staff can help each resident get around safely.
4. Social Isolation
We’re all social to some degree, and human interaction is crucial to our wellbeing. If you and your family are unable to spend regular quality time with your loved one, a residential care home can provide an environment that fosters relationships with caring staff members and other residents in the home. With group activities, your loved one can enjoy a sense of belonging, which can be great for overall morale.
5. Safety Concerns
If you can no longer provide a safe environment for your loved one, it may be time to consider placement in a residential care home. As mentioned in earlier points, getting around a home can be dangerous, especially in homes with stairs. Cooking can be a tough chore as well, but using the oven, stove, or other appliances can pose a safety hazard as well. While a home provides protection, it can also be a place of potential dangers for the elderly without help, and an assisted living home can provide the help and safety needed.
6. Strains on Time & Finances
If you find yourself spending a lot of time helping take care of your loved one, or find that you’re needing to spend a lot of extra money to help take care of them and keep them safe (in-home assistance, food delivery services, etc.), a residential home can help consolidate your expenses into an affordable, predictable cost. Plus, you can rest easy knowing they’re in good hands around the clock, so they can enjoy their independence while still getting the assistance they need.
Key Takeaways
Making the decision to place a loved one in a residential care home is never easy. It is a life-altering decision that should not be taken lightly. However, if you are noticing any of the signs mentioned above, it may be time to start considering your options. By being proactive and planning for this transition, you can ensure that your loved one is placed in a home that meets their needs and provides them with the highest level of care possible.