Signs it may be time to think about a care home

There is rarely one moment when it becomes clear that someone needs a care home. More often, small changes build up. These are some signs that it may be time to talk about more support.

Signs to look out for

• Falls. Repeated falls, or a fear of falling that stops someone moving about.
• Not eating well. Weight loss, out-of-date food in the fridge or meals left untouched.
• Personal care. Struggling to wash, dress or get to the toilet in time.
• Medicines. Missing doses or taking too many.
• Safety. Leaving the cooker on, letting strangers in or getting lost outside.
• Night-time. Being awake and confused at night, or wandering.
• Loneliness. Spending most days alone and becoming withdrawn or low.
• The carer. A family carer who is exhausted, unwell or no longer able to cope.

Before deciding

A care home is not the only answer. Depending on the person’s needs, help at home, equipment and adaptations, day care or a short respite stay may be enough for now.

Start by asking the council for a free care needs assessment. If someone has a family carer, the carer can also ask for a carer’s assessment.

If memory problems are part of the picture, talk to the GP. Sudden confusion can have a treatable cause, such as an infection. See our guide to sudden confusion in older people.

Involve the person

Wherever possible, the decision should be made with the person, not for them. Our guide to talking to a parent about moving into care has some ideas.

When someone cannot decide for themselves

If a person lacks the mental capacity to make the decision, it must be made in their best interests under the Mental Capacity Act 2005. Someone with a health and welfare lasting power of attorney can make the decision on their behalf.

Talk to us

If you are wondering whether Cedar House could help, call us on 01375 768505 or come and look round.