Top 4 Signs Your Loved One With Dementia Needs Nursing Home Care

Dementia is often portrayed as a condition where individuals no longer recognize their loved ones or even themselves, making it impossible for them to live safely alone. However, this view oversimplifies a complex illness. Dementia encompasses a wide range of symptoms, some of which don’t always begin with cognitive decline. For instance, primary progressive aphasia often leads to speech difficulties, while frontotemporal dementia can result in drastic behavioral changes. Alzheimer’s disease may progress slowly, sometimes over years, before obvious cognitive issues arise. This complexity makes it challenging to know when an elderly loved one with dementia needs more support, such as nursing home care.

Here are four key signs to watch for:

1. Unsafe Behavior or Poor Judgment

Dementia can severely impair a person’s ability to make safe decisions. Your loved one may forget to lock doors, turn off the stove, or may even wander away from home and become lost. In more serious cases, poor judgment may lead to inviting strangers into their home, falling victim to scams, or driving unsafely despite previous warnings. If your elderly loved one’s safety is at risk because of these behaviors, it’s time to consider moving them to a more supportive environment, like a nursing home.

2. Struggles with Basic Daily Tasks

A noticeable decline in your loved one’s ability to manage daily tasks such as bathing, eating, dressing, or brushing teeth is a strong indication that they may need more help. Small clues like bad breath, an untidy home, or a lack of groceries could be signals that your loved one is struggling more than they let on.

3. Caregiver Burnout or Overwhelm

Providing care for a loved one with dementia is physically and emotionally draining. Even with the best intentions, family caregivers can become overwhelmed and struggle to meet their loved one’s increasing needs. If you’re feeling burnt out, it’s important to recognize that nursing home care can step in to provide the professional support needed. This allows you to enjoy quality time with your loved one, without the stress of being their primary caregiver.

4. Emotional Decline or Isolation

Seniors with dementia often experience emotional distress, including feelings of confusion, fear, or anger. They may withdraw from social activities, becoming isolated and lonely, which can worsen their condition. If your loved one seems depressed, anxious, or emotionally unstable and you find it difficult to provide enough social support or outings, nursing home care could offer them the companionship and emotional well-being they need.
Recognizing these signs early can help ensure your aging loved one receives the care they need in a safe and supportive environment. Nursing home care not only helps with physical and cognitive challenges but can also improve their emotional and social well-being, providing peace of mind for both you and your loved one.

1+1 Cares is a referral agency that works for clients and caregivers. We match caregivers with clients and inform them of your requirements. We work for you so you and your loved one can have a safe, enjoyable caregiving experience.