Whether your loved one has Alzheimers disease, a heart condition, Parkinson's Disease or another condition, there may come a time when your family has the conversation about placing them into a care facility instead of continuing care at home. Although we encourage keeping your loved one at home as long as possible, and therefore provide extensive services to help make that possible, we know what a tough decision this can be for all families.
Here are a few points to consider when making such a decision:
1. They Feel Lonely at Home
Isolation is a common problem for many with Alzheimer's disease. They've often lost the ability to drive and may feel like they are trapped at home. They might express how much they miss social interaction and group activities, both of which are great reasons to consider a senior care facility. If your loved one was used to attending events and hanging out with friends and suddenly refuses to leave the house, this may be a sign they are lonely and longing for that interaction once again.
2. You Feel Overwhelmed as a Caregiver
First of all, if you do not feel equipped to manage your loved one's diagnosis or disease, it's okay to ask for help. Our Kind Companions have extensive experience in stepping in to guide and help family caregivers with their loved ones. In severe cases of dementia, there's a high risk of your loved one wandering away from the home or being unable to pay bills, do grocery shopping or drive. Your loved one may require 24-hour care at home, which may be a strain on a busy family, especially if everyone is juggling jobs, kids and other family responsibilities. Burnout is also something we see in so many family caregivers, just before they reach out to us to discuss the alternatives. You may be sacrificing your own needs to care for someone you love, and we can help with that.
3. Your Loved One Struggles with Daily Activities
Once your loved one is unable to perform their own daily activities without assistance, it may be time to seek help. Our Kind Companions are often providing help with bathing, dressing, cooking and cleaning. Should your loved one require this daily, and you are unable to help, contact us first before making any other major decisions. Perhaps some part-time care may be necessary. If your loved one has fallen or become injured, a care facility might be a necessary next step, but we can help you make that tough decision.
Our team of Kind Companions is ready for your call, and has many years of experience with all levels of care needed for your loved one. We will listen without judgment and step in when you need it most. Contact us today for a complimentary consultation.