The decision to transition a parent into long term care home is never easy. It can come with heavy emotions and often feels difficult to know if you’re making the right choice for your loved one. As long-time providers of long term care home in the Lower Mainland, we understand the nuances of this decision here at Shaughnessy Seniors Community.
If you’re beginning to worry about your parent’s health or general level of safety, or no longer feel comfortable leaving them alone, it’s likely you’re heavily considering full-time care. Know that this is an excellent option to provide them with the support and resources they need.
Though there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to the question of when to move a parent into long-term care, here are a few common signs that it could be time to do so:
1. They have significant physical limitations or are fall risks
Seniors can experience new or worsening physical challenges as they age. If you have noticed your parent becoming physically limited, it’s certainly worth keeping a close eye on — especially if they are living alone.
If their limitations begin to worsen, it may be time to consider long-term care. Examples of this could include any new diagnoses, recent falls, or increased difficulties getting around their home and completing daily care tasks. If they have been diagnosed with a progressive condition that will severely impact their movement, like muscular dystrophy or Parkinson’s disease, providing them with specialized long term care homecare could greatly improve their quality of life. If they have become fall risks or their home is no longer accessible, your parent will also likely benefit from the safety and security of long-term care.
2. Their cognitive health is declining
If your parent’s cognitive health begins rapidly declining, this is another important sign that can indicate a need for long-term care. Increased forgetfulness and memory loss can be quite scary even if they haven’t yet been properly diagnosed with a condition. If they have been diagnosed with a cognitive condition like Alzheimer’s or Dementia, supporting them on your own without the proper resources may simply not be safe or feasible.
Long-term care homes, like Shaughnessy Seniors Community, center their care plans around any complex health conditions. With specialized help, support, and amenities at their disposal, your parent will receive the treatment they need. As their loved one, you will also be given peace of mind as they’re being looked after.
3. They’ve grown increasingly dependent on you for basic care
It’s only natural to help in the ways we can when our parents begin to age. Supporting your loved one may allow you to feel closer to them. However, if their care needs become increasingly more demanding, it may become stressful and too much for you to bear.
Depending on your parent’s condition, a weekly check-in or grocery run can sometimes rapidly turn into a daily requirement for basic care. This could look like requiring help with brushing their teeth, using the bathroom, or getting in and out of bed. It’s likely unsustainable for you to provide full-time care on your own. If you want to support them while still taking care of your own health, a long-term care home can offer relief.
4. You’re concerned about their quality of life
Social connection and mental stimulation are two benefits of long-term care that can sometimes be overlooked. Many seniors experiencing a decline in their health can begin to isolate themselves. This can not only become physically unsafe but can also lead to feelings of loneliness and depression. If you have noticed this behaviour and are worried for your parent’s quality of life, transitioning them into long term care homecare can have a huge positive impact.
Long-term care communities are there to support your parent through age-related health problems. But, they’re also there to provide an enriching and comfortable space for them to enjoy their lives despite their health. Shaughnessy Seniors Community offers a robust activity calendar filled with opportunities for your parent to connect with other seniors and have fun while doing so.
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It is certainly challenging to decide when to transition your parent into long-term care. They may not always respond positively to the suggestion, and you may not always feel 100% confident about which choice is the right one. Breach the topic with patience and understanding, and be kind to yourself and your loved one. If they’re exhibiting any of the signs listed above, the decision to provide them with long term care homesupport will give them the quality care they need.
Shaughnessy Seniors Community has been a long-time provider of accredited and high-quality long-term care in the Lower Mainland. If you think it may be time to move your parent into a long term care homefacility, our team is happy to answer your questions, give you a tour, or pass along additional information. You can get in touch with us by visiting our website or giving us a call — we look forward to hearing from you!