Dementia is the umbrella term for various diseases affecting cognitive function. With time, the condition can interfere with the sufferer’s ability to live their daily life and undertake everyday activities. Dementia doesn’t develop overnight, making it challenging to know when it’s the right time to consider memory care for your loved one. However, now might be the right time to explore your options when you notice the following things:
They Aren’t Looking After Themselves
Now might be the best time to explore memory care facilities when your loved one with dementia can no longer manage their own care. They might be forgetting to take regular showers, change their clothes, or even brush their hair and teeth.
It’s also not uncommon for many people with dementia to forget to eat, perform household chores, or even shop for groceries. When they were able to manage such tasks in the past with no problems, such a dramatic change can be cause for concern. A memory care facility can ensure these tasks are handled for them.
They’ve Withdrawn from Social Situations
Most people know their loved ones’ versions of normal. They will know about their hobbies, passions, and social circles. It can become obvious that dementia is starting to affect their everyday life when they no longer involve themselves in activities and social environments they once loved.
Most quality memory care providers make socialization and social activities their priority. As a result, you won’t have to worry about your loved one withdrawing themselves any longer.
You Worry About Their Safety
People living with dementia can’t always keep themselves safe without help. They may forget to turn off the stove when cooking or even wander from their home and become lost. When they live alone, these can be problematic circumstances.
When it gets to a point where you spend each day worrying about whether your loved one is safe, a memory care facility can be worth considering. You can then rest assured that care staff are prioritizing their safety and well-being.
You’re Burned Out
Caring for someone with dementia is no easy task. The more advanced the dementia is, the more intensive their care needs to be.
You may get to a point where you’re feeling burned out and neglecting your own needs. At this point, it’s time to prioritize yourself. A memory care facility can look after your loved one so you get your own life back on track.
Caring for yourself when burned out is crucial, as you cannot adequately support a loved one when you’re overwhelmed and exhausted yourself.
You Worry for Your Safety
Verbal and physical aggression can be common symptoms associated with dementia conditions like Alzheimer’s. Sometimes, the aggression can occur for no apparent reason. While physical discomfort, environmental factors, and communication struggles can all be to blame, understanding the cause doesn’t help you in the moment. You might simply no longer feel safe looking after your loved one.
Memory care facilities can be an important consideration sooner rather than later. Employees are trained on how to care for residents living with dementia and can keep themselves and your loved one safe.
It’s never easy knowing when it’s the right time to transition your loved one into care. However, exploring your options now might be crucial if you can relate to these points above.
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Dementia is a challenging and complex topic. There's a lot to think about, which is why we have many posts highlighting different aspects of dementia and dementia caregiving. Check them out for more details - or click the link below for recommended books.
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