It’s not always easy to know when a loved one should be transitioned out of the family home into memory care. That’s why it can be helpful to know that there are signs that often point to the inevitable. If you’re wondering whether it may be time for memory care for your loved one, these may be indications.
The Burden on Loved Ones
Caregiving is a difficult task. From physical demands to demands on time, caring for an aging loved one, particularly one who has dementia, can quickly become overwhelming. Burnout is a very real phenomenon for family members who have taken it upon themselves to care for a loved one. Don’t overlook it. As the saying goes, you cannot pour from an empty cup. Neglecting your own physical and mental needs will catch up with you – quickly.
Transitioning to a specialized memory care home, like Syncare Memory Suites here in Minnesota, can mean more quality time with your loved one. Our staff is trained to meet the needs and individual best interests of those living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, so that you can spend time with your loved one in ways that truly matter.
Safety Concerns
If your loved one is dealing with confusion issues, has wandered off, or appears disoriented, it’s important to judge the situation realistically. There are a number of safety concerns that can arise from confusion, disorientation, or wandering off. If these are on your mind, it could be a sign that your loved one needs more supervision than you can provide.
Hygiene Decline
A telltale sign of memory loss is often related to a decline in personal hygiene. People living with dementia may forget to brush their teeth, bathe, shave, style their hair, or even dress in clean clothes. In some cases, they’ve forgotten how to do these things, but feel too embarrassed to ask for help.
Difficulty with Household Tasks
A common sign of dementia is difficulty completing familiar tasks. These can often include things like paying bills and keeping household items properly stocked. A loved one may also have trouble remembering whether they’ve already purchased something, or determining whether something is valuable or not. This decline in reasoning can also make them susceptible to scams.
Next Steps
Recognizing one or more of these signs in your loved one may be the incentive you need to learn more about your care options. At Syncare Memory Suites, we understand how overwhelming this process can be. We’re here to help – even if you don’t end up choosing our private home for your loved one. Contact us today, and let us answer all of your questions.