When is the right time to put a disabled loved one in a home?

Whether a loved one has been born with a disability or one has developed at some stage in their life, deciding it’s time to seek further care and send them to a care home can be a difficult and emotional step.

However, care homes are often the best place to serve their needs and provide them with the most comfortable quality of life, particularly as disabilities may develop or worsen. And while it’s likely you know this already, it can still be a really difficult decision to make.

What can make that decision easier is understanding when the right time is to move a disabled loved one into a home. And there are certain ways in which you can determine that.

Assessing Care Needs

One of the most important factors is understanding the level of care they need. Some disabilities will progress and while a loved one’s needs may once have been manageable, over time that may no longer be the case.

That could be due to your own circumstances, such as work or family, or the fact that your loved one’s needs have become more complex over time. If it’s got to the point where you’re struggling to provide the necessary care and support, then it could well be time to consider a home.

Signs of them needing that additional support could include more frequent falls, difficulty with personal hygiene, mobility challenges or help with day-to-day activities such as eating and using the bathroom.

Safety Concerns

Naturally, if you are concerned about a loved one’s safety, then around the clock care may be the best option. For example, those with dementia may be fine living at home in the very early stages of the condition, but as it develops may find themselves prone to wandering out and getting lost or leaving appliances on. This can be incredibly dangerous.

Not only is it important for their own safety to get them help, but knowing they are safe in a care home can provide you with peace of mind and significantly improve your stress levels and overall mental health.

Physical and Emotional Wellbeing of Family Caregivers

Providing care for a disabled loved one can be incredibly demanding, both physically and emotionally. It is common for family caregivers to experience burnout, feelings of isolation, and a decline in their own health as a result of the constant demands of caregiving.

If you find that your health or wellbeing is being significantly affected, or if caregiving responsibilities are placing a strain on family relationships, it may be time to consider alternative care options. Taking care of your own mental and physical health is important, not only for your sake but also to ensure you can continue providing emotional support for your loved one. Moving them into a care home does not mean you are abandoning them; instead, it allows you to focus on being a supportive family member rather than a full-time caregiver.

Quality of Life for Your Loved One

Another important factor to consider is your loved one’s quality of life. If they are isolated, lonely, or not receiving enough social stimulation at home, moving into a care home may actually improve their overall wellbeing. Many residential homes offer activities, therapy, and social opportunities that can enhance the emotional and mental health of residents.

If your loved one’s social and emotional needs are not being met at home, a care home could provide a more enriching and fulfilling environment. Regular interaction with trained staff and other residents can help them feel more engaged and supported.

Access to Specialised Care

Some disabilities require specialised care that family members may not be able to provide. Conditions such as advanced dementia, Parkinson’s disease, or certain physical disabilities may require medical interventions, therapies, or equipment that are difficult to manage in a home setting. Care homes often have trained medical staff on-site who are equipped to manage complex health conditions, provide rehabilitation, and ensure that residents are comfortable.

If your loved one’s disability requires a level of care or expertise beyond what you can offer, a care home may be the best solution for ensuring they receive the appropriate medical attention.