Over 15 million Americans unselfishly devote their time and energy in order to care for their elderly parent or loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease according to experts. However, the expense of continuous caregiving can get very high. Often, caregivers find themselves no longer able to adequately bear the tremendous burden of providing health care at home without significantly suffering from illness and stress themselves.
At this point, it’s likely time to face the fact that their parent indeed may be ready for some sort of assisted living if their needs are too hard to deal with at home. Here are four key signs that indicate your elderly parent may need the help of assisted living.
1. Sundowning
Sundowner syndrome refers to an agitated behavior that increases as the sun goes down later in the day. It’s a common trait among people with Alzheimer’s. Doctors say that it can be overwhelming on caregivers, and that once it starts to seriously disrupt family lifestyles and routines, it may be a big clue that the burden of caregiving is too difficult to deal with.
Physical, verbal, and even sexually-driven aggression often occurs in people suffering with dementia, which in turn can make caregivers and family members start to feel somewhat overwhelmed and even resentful. When the elderly parent reaches that unfortunate state, it’s probably time to consider assisted living placement in a location like Alpine Manor Home for Adults.
2. Wandering
In the later stages of dementia, the dangerous risk that wandering poses greatly increases according to clinical experts. In fact, they can even start to wander away in the little time it takes for the caregiver to use the bathroom, which increases the likelihood of injuries and falls.
3. Caregiver Stress
How stressed out the caregiver becomes along with other symptoms such as extreme fatigue can be just as big a sign that it may be time for extra help as the parent’s dementia-based behavior itself. As a caregiver, are you constantly worried and stressed out 24/7? Have you sacrificed your mind, body, and spirit to care for your elderly parent? As noble as a caregiver’s job is, reaching the point of utter despair, resentment, and physical exhaustion will help no one in the end.
4. Home Stress Issues and Increasing Care Needs
Is the parent with dementia becoming increasingly unsafe in their own home? Is their health or the health of the caregiver at risk? If the answer is ‘yes’ to either of these questions, placement may necessary.
While no one ever wants to move out of their home and into assisted living, in some cases it may be the safest and best possible solution available. If you do decide to place your elderly parent into an assisted living program, thoroughly look at the housing situation along with their current medical needs and overall health status to make the most-informed choice.
