Deciding that the everyday care and monitoring of a loved one is better off in the hands of full time professionals in a specialty care community rather than with family members is a difficult and complex conclusion to reach. Many factors feed into evaluating the best environment and location for safe, compassionate and successful care for those with memory loss and physical care needs. ActivCare Living Chief Operating Office Todd Shetter has put together a list of 5 questions to ask yourself when determining how to achieve the best care for a loved one with memory loss.
Ask yourself:
- Is the current environment safe? Safety is paramount for those with Alzheimer’s and related dementias. Have you safeguarded against wandering?
- Are at-home caregivers capable and competent? Having the right team in place can provide consistency and reassurance, but unreliable caregivers add extra stress. Are your caregivers engaging the resident or are they just sitters?
- What is the back-up plan? If the primary caregiver is not available, needs a break, or falls ill, who takes over? What is your Plan B? Plan C?
- Is the current situation the best scenario for all involved? Although home may be familiar, does it provide the right stimulation? Each of us needs purpose and routine. Does the resident feel valued? Are they active or sedentary?
- What is the cost of care at home? Private duty caregivers are expensive and overtime rates can compound over time. Have you evaluate how much you are spending?
Check out the full article, Dementia Care: When is the Right Time to Place. Just another reference for family caregivers located in the Resources section of our website.