When Should Someone with Dementia Go Into a Care Home?
Noticing changes in a loved one can be concerning, especially if they are beginning to struggle living at home. If your loved one has received a diagnosis of dementia or is experiencing the first symptoms, it doesn’t necessarily mean they will need 24-hour care immediately, but when should you consider permanent care? In this blog, we’ll look into the signs that your loved one might benefit from a dementia care home and the first steps to take.
What Are The Early Signs and Symptoms of Dementia?
Dementia is an umbrella term for over 100 progressive conditions that affect the brain, the most common being Alzheimer’s disease. These conditions are more serious than just becoming forgetful, so it’s important to talk to your GP if you are concerned about any changes in your loved one’s health. These many types of dementia have a range of different symptoms, but here are some of the most common ones to look out for:
Memory Loss - The most well-known symptom of dementia is often the first one you might notice.
Difficulty concentrating - Someone with the early stages of dementia my struggle to think things through, plan properly and make rational decisions.
Communication problems - A person may struggle to find the right words in conversation or follow what is being said.
Confusion - If a person is becoming confused more often, particularly with familiar tasks, this could be a sign of early dementia. This can be more subtle, such as someone simply becoming quiet or asking repetitive questions.
Mood and behavioural changes - People with the early stages of dementia may become more irritable or upset, more easily than they usually would. You know your loved one best so it’s worth chatting to them about any changes you may have noticed.
Orientation and movement problems - These, along with muscle weakness are symptoms of vascular dementia in particular.
When Should Someone with Dementia Go Into a Care Home?
Rather than thinking about what a person with dementia finds difficult, it can be more helpful to think about what care homes can offer, and whether your loved one would benefit from these services on a day to day basis.
They need 24-hour support
When daily life begins to present safety concerns, such as a loved one leaving the house and getting lost, being at risk of falling while moving around or forgetting to do basic tasks like cleaning or turning off the oven, it may be a sign that 24-hour care could offer greater peace of mind. In a care home, expert carers are on hand to take care of cooking, cleaning and laundry, removing the pressure of remembering how to manage these routines alone.
It’s completely natural to worry about losing independence and autonomy when thinking about permanent care, which is why choosing the right care home is so important. Good carers will always aim to encourage independence wherever possible, while treating residents with respect and dignity at all times. The support provided is there to offer reassurance and safety, helping individuals continue to live as comfortably and confidently as possible, rather than to control their day-to-day lives.
They are feeling lonely
One of the most comforting aspects of moving into a care home is the supportive community that warmly welcomes residents from the moment they arrive. Rather than feeling isolated, individuals often discover a renewed sense of belonging and purpose through daily interactions with others. Friendships naturally form, and these meaningful connections can have a profound impact on emotional and mental wellbeing.
Regular conversation and shared activities also provide valuable cognitive stimulation, helping to keep the mind active and engaged. In this way, a care home environment can offer not just support, but a vibrant and reassuring sense of community for those living with dementia.
They have experienced a fall
Care homes are often built for purpose, meaning they are thoughtfully designed to provide a safe and fully dementia-friendly environment. Features such as contrasting furniture, floors and walls help residents navigate their surroundings more easily and with greater confidence. Corridors are typically wide and clutter free, with dark-coloured handrails throughout to offer extra support and reduce the risk of falls.
Alongside these carefully considered design elements, trained nurses are on hand at all times, ready to step in and provide reassurance or assistance if an accident does happen. This combination of specialist design and constant support helps create a secure and calming setting for those living with dementia.
Their mental health is declining
Dementia-friendly activities play a vital role in supporting residents’ mental health, with each one thoughtfully designed to nurture both physical and emotional wellbeing. From gentle group sessions to more personalised experiences, these activities help create meaningful moments of joy and connection.
Happy moments through music therapy are especially valuable for people living with dementia, often sparking memories and encouraging engagement even in later stages. Creative activities also offer non-verbal residents a chance to express themselves and use their imagination, which is excellent for brain health and can build confidence. Sensory rooms or experiences are also have similar benefits for people living with dementia.
Reminiscence activities, such as looking through photographs or discussing familiar memories, provide comfort and a sense of identity, helping residents feel more grounded and reassured in their surroundings.
Supporting Someone With Dementia
Broaching the conversation about dementia care can feel incredibly difficult, and it’s natural to worry about how it might affect your relationship with your loved one. However, their safety and health should always be prioritised, and if that means moving into a care home, it’s important to explain this with honesty and compassion.
If you’re currently caring for someone with dementia, or feel unable to continue for any reason, you may experience guilt, but it’s important to remember that this is not a selfish decision. Your own mental and physical health matters too and seeking additional support can benefit everyone involved.
When starting the conversation, choose a calm, private moment when tensions are low, and consider involving other family members in a way that feels supportive rather than overwhelming or like an ambush. Try to focus on the positives of a care home, highlighting the opportunities for support, safety and social connection, rather than what may be changing.
Reassure your loved one that this move does not mean losing their independence or individuality, and take time to listen carefully to their concerns, acknowledge their feelings and reinforce that their wellbeing is at the heart of every decision being made.
How To Find a Care Home For Dementia
Finding the right care home can feel like a big step, but there are practical ways to make the process more manageable and reassuring. Starting with a care needs assessment or carer’s assessment through your local council can help you understand what level of support is needed; having a professional opinion often makes conversations with your loved one easier and can give you greater confidence in your decision.
When beginning your search, try looking online for phrases such as “dementia care home near me,” or “dementia care in Edinburgh”. Keep in mind the things that matter most to your loved one, whether that’s access to outdoor space, social activities or a quieter setting, so you can find a home that truly suits them.
Visiting potential care homes is an important step, as it allows you to see firsthand the care residents are receiving and whether staff treat them with respect and dignity. It can also be helpful to speak with residents and their families to hear about their experiences, and to explore trusted review websites like carehome.co.uk, where verified testimonials can offer valuable insight into what daily life is really like within the home.
Care Home in Edinburgh
If you’re looking for a care home for your loved one who is living with dementia, Gilmerton Care Home is here for you. Our friendly care experts are here to support your family every step of the way, through practical and emotional support. We see the person behind the diagnosis, that’s why our dementia care is thoughtfully tailored to each resident, focusing on dignity, independence and emotional well-being within a safe and supportive environment. Please get in touch today to find out how we can support you, or arrange a home tour to come and see our Edinburgh care home for yourself.
