Tending to a loved one with dementia requires continuous adaptation to the individual's changing needs. As the disease progresses, there comes a point when 24-hour care becomes not just beneficial but essential for ensuring the safety, well-being, and good quality of life for the individual.
Listed below are key indicators that signal that 24-hour dementia support may be needed:
Safety Concerns: One of the key reasons behind considering 24-hour care is an escalation in safety concerns. Wandering, forgetting to turn off appliances, or experiencing challenges with activities of everyday living increases the risk for injuries or accidents.
Sleep Disturbances: As dementia progresses, sleep patterns often become disrupted. Nighttime confusion, agitation, or wandering may lead to sleep deprivation for both the individual and you as their caregiver, impacting overall health and well-being.
Inability to Perform Basic Tasks: When the person begins to struggle with basic tasks such as bathing, dressing, or eating, 24-hour care ensures steady support for these activities, promoting dignity and empowering the individual to maintain the best possible quality of life.
Decline in Physical Health: Dementia can impact a person's physical health, resulting in challenges with mobility, coordination, and self-care. Round-the-clock care ensures prompt assistance with any physical needs that could arise.
Medical Monitoring Requirements: Some people with dementia may have underlying health conditions that require regular monitoring. Continuous care allows for close observation of medical needs and timely intervention.
Frequent Hospitalizations: If the individual is experiencing frequent hospitalizations due to complications associated with dementia, 24-hour care might be necessary to provide consistent monitoring and preventive measures.
Communication Barriers: Advanced dementia often leads to communication difficulties. Professional caregivers experienced in communicating with those with dementia can enhance the person's overall quality of life and reduce frustration.
Caregiver Burnout: The demands of providing care for someone with dementia can be overwhelming. If you’re experiencing exhaustion or other signs of caregiver burnout or depression, it may be an indication that 24-hour care is necessary.
Increased Behavioral Challenges: Agitation, aggression, or challenging behaviors may increase as dementia progresses. Professional caregivers trained in managing these behaviors can offer a more secure environment and prevent potential harm.
Note that if the person’s behaviors are causing you or the individual to be at an increased risk of harm, it’s a great idea to investigate care home options, where multiple caregivers are on hand to ensure everyone’s safety.
At The Care Company, we offer specialized dementia care from skilled, trained, and experienced care professionals, customized to the needs of the individual. In the early stages of the disease, this might mean just a couple of hours of support and help. Once the disease progresses, we can increase the level of care to ensure safety and comfort, up to and including around-the-clock care.
Email or call us any time at 416-422-2273 to learn more about our in-home dementia care in North York, Markham, Etobicoke, and throughout the Greater Toronto Area.
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