Signs it is time to have a conversation about care

Moving a loved one into a care home can be a difficult decision for all involved. Often, accepting the need for residential care is a hard choice, as people can feel that their independence is being taken away. It is crucial to approach the conversation with care and in a calm manner.

 

When should you put someone in a care home?

There are some signs that you can be aware of that may help indicate that it is time to think about starting a conversation about care.

 
  • Unsafe living alone
    If you are beginning to worry about your loved one living alone, this is a sign it is time to consider care. It may be that you are concerned about their physical ability or even their ability to remember details.
  • Specialist medical care
    A care worker will be able to monitor your loved one’s medical needs, ensuring they take the correct dosage and keeping tabs on any changes that may need to be referred to a doctor.
  • Hygiene declining
    Declining hygiene is a clear sign that help is needed. By moving into a care home, your loved ones will be able to maintain their dignity with regular help from workers where they need it.
  • Loneliness
    Loneliness affects a large number of elderly people in the UK. Having people to share meaningful conversations with is fundamental to people’s well-being. Care residents can build daily relationships with staff workers and fellow residents.
  • Dementia or Alzheimer’s
    Early symptoms of Dementia or Alzheimer’s can include memory loss, confusion, difficulty concentrating and mood changes. These symptoms may develop to become more severe. Read the NHS guide to know what to look for. Many care homes offer specialist dementia care, and choosing to relocate can offer significant peace of mind.
 

 

Starting a conversation

 

If you have noticed some of these signs, you may want to move on to begin a conversation about the potential of moving into a care home. Here are some tips for having an effective and respectful conversation about things that need to change.

  1. Recognise why they may be hesitant
    It may feel obvious to you that moving to a care home is the best option. However, it is important to try and put yourself in the shoes of your loved one. Deciding that you need to care for yourself is a much harder decision than deciding for someone else, especially if you are someone who values independence. Make it clear that you understand that the decision is hard, but you also can see that it cannot necessarily be avoided.
  2. Start the conversation early
    If possible, it is better to start the conversation about care earlier rather than later. Don’t wait until there is an emergency situation. Giving your loved one time to consider what they would like to happen will likely allow the whole process to run more smoothly. They will feel more comfortable and calm if they know that moving is on the cards and they are included in the decision.
  3. Prioritise what is needed
    Start where there is the most need. For example, if your family member is struggling to do household chores, hiring a domestic cleaner to help may be a good first step to them accepting support from others.
  4. Give options
    Include your loved one in the decision process as much as possible. Ask them about what they would like in a care home, consider options in the best location and let them indicate their preferences. They may want to start with having a carer visit their home or begin staying at the care home for shorter periods. Involving your loved one will minimise feelings of powerlessness, making the transition a more pleasant experience.
  5. What are your responsibilities?
    Remember that you are only responsible for organising your parents’ care if they are unable to make their own decisions or if you have been previously granted power of attorney. Other than in these situations, you may feel you want to help, but it is not your legal requirement. If your loved one is in their right mind and is adamant that they will not move home, you are not responsible for their decision. You can continue to seek advice, but you cannot force a decision, even when you can no longer care for elderly parent.

    If you know an elderly person who seems to be incapable of making a decision and has no family or friends to refer them to care, get in touch with your council’s adult safeguarding team, who will be able to help.

 

 

About Jackman’s Lodge

At Jackman’s Lodge, we understand the importance of a warm welcome. We ensure all of our residents have a safe, calm and enjoyable environment to live in. Our specialist staff are on hand to offer support whenever needed, including a good chat!

Please get in touch if you would like any further information on how to get someone into a care home. We would love to discuss how we can best support you and your loved one.

Call us today on 01483 761779.