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This is a question we hear frequently at Country Court. A dementia diagnosis can be devastating for families, and navigating care options is fraught with difficulties and dilemmas.
From questions about who will make decisions, to how to pay for care, each family situation is different and finding answers can be daunting.
Here are a few points to consider if you’re unsure about moving into a care home:
When care at home is not working
Family caregivers may reach a point where they are physically or emotionally exhausted. They may feel burnt out from the demands of providing 24-hour care. Even with the support of domiciliary or home care providers, there comes a point where a setting with specialist equipment and trained staff is needed.
At what point do dementia patients need 24-hour care?
Incontinence, difficulty eating, dressing or bathing, and missed medication signal the need for trained carers. Forgetting to take medication is a common issue, but with care home staff on hand 24 hours a day, you can be assured that medication is properly administered and monitored. It’s not just the practical side of caring that needs to be considered; some people with dementia become withdrawn and isolated. Life in a care home provides social interaction and tailored activities to enhance quality of life at all stages of the disease.
Is it safe for a person with dementia to live at home?
Safety concerns are common, especially if people tend to wander and get lost or forget to turn off the oven or iron. As dementia advances, people may experience increased agitation, aggression, or even hallucinations that are difficult to manage at home and distressing for families.
Carolyn, the daughter of a resident at The Grange Care Home in Essex, shared her experience:
“Over 4 years, Mum’s dementia increased, and there were many challenges to deal with, ranging from falls in the beginning to the deterioration of all her faculties towards the end. However, even when bedbound, the staff treated Mum as though she were still the vibrant lady whom they had first met. Even if they had not known her very long, she was still cared for with immense love and respect right up until her final breath. This includes the cooks who took time to prepare a tasty purée and the cleaners who chatted to Mum even when she could only listen. I will never be able to thank the team enough for the total loving care that was given to Mum.”
Where to start?
Your local council’s social services department offers support and guidance on care options. A formal care needs assessment is the first step, followed by a financial assessment to decide how much the individual will contribute to the cost of care. If the person’s care needs are primarily health-related, they may be eligible for free NHS continuing care. You may consider setting up Lasting Power of Attorney.
Healthcare professionals, such as your GP or district nursing team, will support a family’s decision-making process. The person living with dementia should also have their say where possible.
Finding a care home near me
Choosing a care home is a big decision, but it doesn’t mean losing your independence or connection. It can be about rediscovering joy, building new friendships, and giving families peace of mind. Start your search for the right care home near you today and request a brochure or book a tour of your local care home.
Country Court has care and nursing homes across the UK. You can call our friendly team to discuss your care needs on 01733 911 570. Here’s a link to the Country Court exclusive special offers page.
