Recognizing the Signs That Your Loved One Needs More Care
Caring for an aging parent or loved one with dementia is one of the most selfless acts a person can undertake. However, it can also be physically, emotionally, and mentally exhausting. In the U.S., an estimated 37.1 million adults provide care for an elderly relative, devoting an average of 17–22 hours a week—essentially a part-time job.
For many family caregivers, there comes a point when the level of care their loved one needs exceeds what they can provide at home. This isn’t a failure—it’s a natural progression of the condition. Dementia, by its very nature, worsens over time, and ensuring your loved one’s safety and quality of life often requires professional care.
If you’re wrestling with guilt about seeking assisted living, understanding the signs can help you make an informed and compassionate decision.
Signs Your Loved One Needs Assisted Living
1. Wandering
One of the most alarming symptoms of dementia is wandering. Caregivers often resort to extreme measures, such as nailing windows shut or sleeping outside a loved one’s door, to prevent dangerous situations. If your loved one has started to wander, it’s a clear sign that professional care is needed to ensure their safety and your peace of mind.
2. Forgetfulness Becomes Dangerous
Forgetfulness is a hallmark of aging, but when it leads to danger, it’s time to intervene. Leaving the stove on, forgetting to turn off the water, or leaving the door unlocked are common examples of forgetfulness turning hazardous. If these scenarios are happening frequently, it’s time to consider assisted living.
3. Sundowning
Sundowning, a symptom associated with dementia, typically occurs around sunset and involves mood swings, aggression, and paranoia. Managing sundowning can be incredibly challenging, especially as symptoms often escalate in the evening hours. Professional care facilities are equipped to handle these behaviors with expertise and compassion, ensuring both your loved one and you get the support needed.
Why Assisted Living Can Be the Right Choice
Many adult children feel guilty about transitioning their loved one to assisted living, believing they are depriving them of freedom or failing in their caregiving role. But the reality is quite the opposite: choosing assisted living ensures your loved one receives expert care in a safe, supportive environment.
Assisted living communities provide structured routines, social opportunities, and specialized memory care programs that can significantly improve quality of life for seniors with dementia. For caregivers, it alleviates the stress and physical toll that can lead to burnout or even health problems.
Let Concierge Care Advisors Help You Find the Right Care
Deciding on assisted living is never easy, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Concierge Care Advisors, we understand the challenges of caregiving and can guide you through every step of the process.
Our team will help you find a community that provides the compassionate, professional care your loved one deserves. Don’t wait until caregiving becomes overwhelming—Contact us today for personalized advice and support.
