Knowing When to Take the Step Toward 24-Hour Dementia Care

Taking good care of a family member with dementia requires ongoing adaptation to the individual’s changing needs. As the disease advances, there comes a point when 24-hour dementia care becomes not just beneficial but necessary for ensuring the safety, well-being, and good quality of life for the person.

Here are key indicators that signal the appropriateness of transitioning to round-the-clock care:

Safety Concerns: One of the principal reasons for considering 24-hour care is an increase in safety concerns. Wandering, forgetting to turn off appliances, or experiencing challenges with activities of everyday living increases the risk for injuries or accidents.

Sleep Disturbances: As dementia advances, sleep patterns often become disrupted. Nighttime confusion, agitation, or wandering may lead to sleep deprivation for both the individual and you as their caregiver, impacting overall health and well-being.

Inability to Perform Basic Tasks: When the person begins to have trouble with basic tasks such as bathing, dressing, or eating, 24-hour dementia care ensures continuous support for these activities, promoting dignity and empowering the individual to maintain the best possible quality of life.

Decline in Physical Health: Dementia can impact an individual’s physical health, resulting in challenges with coordination, mobility, and self-care. Round-the-clock care ensures prompt help with any physical needs which could arise.

Medical Monitoring Requirements: Some individuals with dementia might have underlying health conditions that necessitate regular monitoring. Continuous care allows for close observation of medical needs and timely intervention.

Frequent Hospitalizations: If the person is experiencing frequent hospitalizations due to complications related to dementia, 24-hour care might be necessary to provide consistent monitoring and preventive measures.

Communication Barriers: Advanced dementia often results in communication challenges. Professional caregivers experienced in communicating with those with dementia can enhance the person’s overall quality of life and reduce frustration.

Caregiver Burnout: The demands of providing care for someone with dementia can be overwhelming. If you are experiencing exhaustion or other signs of caregiver burnout or depression, it may be an indicator that 24-hour care is necessary.

Increased Behavioral Challenges: Aggression, agitation, or challenging behaviors may intensify as dementia progresses. Professional caregivers trained in managing these behaviors can offer a more secure environment and prevent potential harm.

Note that if the person’s behaviors are causing you or the individual to be at risk of harm, it is a great idea to investigate care home options, where multiple caregivers are on hand to ensure everyone’s safety.

At CareWorks Health Services, we offer specialized dementia care from skilled, trained, and experienced care professionals, customized to the needs of the individual. In the early stages of the disease, this might mean just a few hours of support and help. As the disease progresses, we can increase the amount of care to ensure comfort and safety, up to and including around-the-clock care.

Reach out to us online or call us at (949) 859-4700 for more information on our in-home dementia care in Seal Beach, Laguna Woods, Newport Beach or other areas throughout Orange County.