Effective Strategies for Transitioning an Alzheimer’s Patient to a Care Home
Making the decision to move an elderly family member with Alzheimer’s or another form of Dementia to a care facility is never easy. Feelings of guilt and inadequacy are common. Often, the person with cognitive impairment isn’t able to help make this decision, which adds to the difficulty.
Here are some important things to consider before making your decision:
**When to Move**
Timing is crucial. In the early stages of Alzheimer’s, it’s often possible to provide care at home. However, it’s important to monitor the condition closely. As the disease progresses, the person may struggle with basic tasks like brushing teeth or eating. They may show signs of aggression, become withdrawn, experience incontinence, or suffer from confusion.
When these symptoms worsen, the family caregiver might find it too challenging to provide constant care. Caregiver stress is a serious concern; taking care of someone with Alzheimer’s can be exhausting both physically and mentally, especially as the disease advances.
**Choosing the Right Care Home**
Sometimes, moving a loved one to a care home is the best option for everyone involved. Look for facilities with special units for Alzheimer’s or Dementia patients as they are better equipped to handle their specific needs.
Before selecting a care home, visit it several times at different times of the day. Pay attention to the comfort, security, and overall environment. Since patients with Alzheimer’s often wander, good security measures are crucial to prevent injuries.
Speak with the staff, especially those who work directly with Alzheimer’s patients, to understand the care arrangements. Also, discuss the activities they offer to keep the patients engaged and mentally stimulated. It’s helpful to talk to families of other residents to get their perspective.
**Considering the Costs**
Long-term care can be expensive. Check if health insurance covers any part of the cost. If not, plan for the expenses. Understand what is included in the basic fee and what services are billed separately.
However, don’t compromise on the quality of care based on costs alone. Focus on the care home’s living conditions, care standards, and overall environment. Your loved one’s health, comfort, security, and well-being should be the top priority.
A well-equipped Alzheimer’s and Dementia care unit, like the one at Barlavington Manor, can be a great choice. These facilities offer a safe and comfortable environment with round-the-clock care from trained professionals.
Take your time making this decision. Discuss it with all family members and visit nearby care facilities to assess their suitability. If you find a place that seems right, check its availability. It’s important not to rush this decision, but rather to ensure it’s the best choice for your loved one.
