Due to the fact that dementia will get worse over time, it is a disease that is hard to compare to others. The symptoms will develop at varying rates for different people, and while one person may experience certain symptoms, another person may not experience those symptoms at all. Because of this, it makes it difficult to know when it is the right time to seek help from a memory care service. Here are a few signs that it is time to make the transition to a specialized facility.
Increased Health Needs
Loss of memory can lead to a host of health issues. Individuals who suffer from dementia may either take too much of their medications or fail to take them altogether. They may also be unable to prepare a nutritious meal regularly. These issues can lead to further health problems. If your loved one is becoming more easily confused, they may become more anxious and depressed.
Decline in Personal Hygiene
It is not at all uncommon for a person with dementia to fall behind on or forget about their personal hygiene. They may forget to brush their teeth, fix their hair, shave, put on fresh clothes, or bathe. In some cases, they may be aware of the fact that they need to do these tasks, but they are not sure how to do them or are embarrassed to ask for help. Unfortunately, this can lead to more mental pain and suffering.
Concerned for Their Safety
Because individuals with dementia are confused and disorientated, safety is a serious concern. There is an increased risk of auto accidents for those who are still driving. For individuals who go on a walk, they may suddenly get lost because of the memory loss that they suffer from, causing them to panic and take part in risky behavior. Then, of course, individuals with dementia are more at risk of falls because they have forgotten they have placed an item somewhere, which becomes a tripping hazard.
If you are noticing any of the aforementioned issues in your loved one who has been diagnosed with dementia or another memory-related condition, it may be time to consider transitioning to a memory care facility. To help ease the transition, make sure to involve your loved one as much as possible and ask as many questions as you may have. A fresh start at a memory care facility can truly improve your loved one's overall quality of life. For more information contact a memory care facility near you.