When is it the right time for a nursing home?

Moving your loved one into a care home or nursing home is a difficult decision that requires a lot of thought. You have to think about what’s right for them, what’s right for you, their care needs and what you can afford. So, when is it time to put an elderly relative in a nursing home?

This guide will run through the key questions you should consider, from safety and security to the upsides of moving to residential living. We’ll also provide tips on the transition to help make things easier for your loved one when the time comes.

Can your loved one safely look after themselves?

No doubt you will have already been considering whether your loved one can continue to look after themselves. When they no longer have the independence required to keep themselves safe, it may be time to start considering care. To help you make that judgement, here are the most common signs to look out for:

Falls

Older people can be more frail, and falls are much more serious for the elderly than for younger people. Unfortunately, older people often adopt a “grin and bear it” attitude. Your loved one might not want to tell you if they’ve had a fall. Signs to watch for include unexpected bruises and a sudden reluctance to be up and about.

Issues with food

Buying food, cooking and washing up can be tricky if you have memory problems or physical difficulties such as arthritis. Being unable to prepare or eat food can result in weight loss, worsening of existing health issues or even accidents such as house fires.

Your loved one may skip meals intentionally or unintentionally, or stop stocking their kitchen altogether. Food may be left to go bad or dirty dishes may pile up, potentially creating a health hazard or infestation. 

Problems managing medication

Mismanagement of medication can be particularly dangerous for elderly individuals. This may mean taking too much or too little medication, taking it at the wrong time, missing doses or doubling doses. Pill boxes and organisers can help with this, but may not be sufficient for those with more significant memory loss.

You may spot leftover pills, or realise that your loved one doesn’t seem to need refills as often as usual. They may also be experiencing health dips or withdrawal symptoms that could be related to inconsistent medication intake.

Personal hygiene concerns

Older people can find it challenging to manage their hygiene needs, whether due to physical or cognitive issues. This may result in problems bathing and showering, washing their clothes or maintaining a clean and sanitary living space. Poor hygiene can cause illness, infections and skin problems as well as affecting a person’s mental wellbeing. 

Bathroom aids and washing aids can help elderly individuals to keep clean independently for as long as possible. But if they still struggle, a care home or nursing home staffed with trained carers may be more suitable.

Does their home environment support their needs?

Most homes aren't designed to accommodate the mobility challenges that come with ageing. Stairs become a significant hazard. Bathrooms may not be equipped with safety features such as grab bars or walk-in baths. 

A bungalow or ground-floor flat may provide a solution to some of these issues, especially if a full-time carer is an option. However, if this is not possible, a residential home or a nursing home could provide security and peace of mind.

Aside from mobility issues, progressive conditions such as dementia can also affect an individual’s ability to live independently. In these cases, specialist care provided in a suitable environment could significantly improve their quality of life. 

Supporting the transition to residential care

Deciding on residential care for your loved one is only the first step. The transition itself will most likely be a tough time both for you and your loved one. Here are some tips on handling it as best you can.

• Choose the right type of residence:
  Understand the difference between care homes and nursing homes. Care homes provide assistance with daily living tasks, while nursing homes employ round-the-clock qualified nurses. If your elderly relative has advanced medical conditions or high support needs, a nursing home may be the best option. 
• Involve your loved one:
  Involving them in the process as much as possible can make the transition feel less daunting. Help them with the practical things, like deciding what to pack when moving into a care home. Mobility aids and daily living aids, such as warming aids, can help your loved one settle in more quickly.
• Coping emotionally:
  It's normal to feel guilt or sadness, but remember that you're making this decision out of love. Seek support from friends, family, or professionals to manage these feelings. Your loved one may benefit from similar support, too.

If your loved one needs assistance with day-to-day tasks, whether at home or in a care home, visit Complete Care Shop today. You’ll find a wide selection of living aids to help elderly individuals remain independent for as long as possible. Contact us for advice on choosing the right products for your needs.