When a Senior Needs Long-Term Care

As our loved ones grow older, it is very common to face tough decisions about their care. While the hope is always to be able to support them in the home, there may come a time when a senior requires specialized support that really only a long-term care facility can provide. It can be difficult to identify that need, both emotionally and practically. This blog will take you through some of the signs that a senior may benefit from making the transition into long-term care.

Understanding Long-Term Care

Long-term care is a variety of services intended to help people meet medical and personal care needs when they are no longer able to care for themselves. This may include simple assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing and dressing, and extends to medically supervising and maintaining social interactions. Services can range from assisted living to nursing homes, enabling each specific level of care.
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Signs That Long-Term Care May Be Needed

• Decline in Physical Health: Frequent falls, weight loss, or worsening chronic conditions may indicate that a senior is no longer able to manage his or her health. Regular medical assessment will help identify whether the needs have overtaken the safe management of these needs at home.
  
  

• Cognitive Changes: The beginning of a decline in cognition that includes persistent memory loss, confusion, or a variation in behavior is a clear indication for an increased level of regulated care. When seniors show an inability to perform tasks that they used to do by themselves, perhaps it is time to consider avenues for care available in the meantime.
  
  

• Inability to Continue with ADLs: Generally, inability to continue with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, cooking, or handling medication on their own could be a very telling factor. Especially when your loved one struggles with these tasks, and it becomes a safety concern, long-term care may be required.
  
  

• Social Isolation and Loneliness: Most seniors suffer from isolation, especially in cases where immobility restricts their interaction with friends and family. Long-term care facilities offer companionship and activities that can fill their lives and give them a sense of belonging.

 

• Caregiver Stress: If you're a primary caregiver, take some time to consider your own needs. It's common for caregivers to burn out, and it affects not just your health but also your ability to provide quality care for your loved one. It is important that you learn when to say, "I need help," not just for your sake but also for your loved one's sake.

 

• Unsafe Living Conditions: When a senior's home environment becomes unsafe due to clutter, lack of accessibility, or other hazards, that could be a surefire sign that a transition is required. Long-term care facilities are specifically designed to offer safety and support.

Room Availability in Long-Term Care

Long-term care room availability can become an important factor when considering additional levels of care that may be needed for a senior. The Continuum of Care at facilities such as Bridgeway Care & Rehabilitation Centers in both Bridgewater and Hillsborough is complete and integrated so that the resident receives only as much or as little care as needed. 

Whether the need is for skilled care for aging, chronic illness, Alzheimer's disease, or other memory impairments, it is the personal goal of the Bridgeway team to provide the care, comfort, and peace of mind necessary for a successful transition.

If your loved one is currently in the hospital please inform the social worker that Bridgeway is your first choice for their care. This will facilitate a smoother transition and may positively impact room availability.

Communicating the Need for Change

Long-term care is a sensitive issue to bring up with your loved one. Below are some helpful tips for having this necessary discussion:

• Timing: Find a quiet moment in which you can discuss your concerns without interruptions.

 

• Show Empathy: Let them know it's not easy for them either to be afraid of going into a new environment. The feelings need to be acknowledged, and they have to be comforted with the fact that this decision has been taken out of love and concern.

 

• Involve Them in the Decision: Give your loved one every opportunity to state their thoughts and preferences concerning care options. They will feel more in control and respected by having some say in this important decision.

 

• Do the Research Together: Tour different facilities and various care options with your loved one. Understanding what is available can lessen many fears and unknowns.

Making the Transition

After the decision has been made, it is still difficult to make this transition. Following are ways you may continue to support your loved one:

• Take the time spent together at the facility to get them better acquainted with their new home. This can help reduce anxiety about the transition.

• Encourage your loved one to bring personal items that will make their new space seem more like their home.

• Regular visits, phone calls, and participation in activities will help them settle in and not feel cut off.

Admitting an elderly person into a long-term care facility is not an easy decision. It requires the best reasoning, compassion, and open dialogue. If you recognize signs that your loved one needs extra support and bring the topic up with empathy, then you are providing him or her with the care needed while preserving dignity and quality of life. 

Keep in mind, seeking help is a sign of strength, and by being proactive, you will have a far more enjoyable life for yourself and your loved one. If you are considering options for long-term care, let Bridgeway be your first choice in your journey to recovery. Their compassionate staff are prepared to guide you through every step.