3. Challenges in Later Stage Dementia care

3.3. Considering the location of care

The decision to move to a new place of care is not made easily, as discussed in Unit 3. For many Carers it is a decision about doing the right thing for the person they are caring for and for themselves. Take a look at Robert speaking about the decision about long term care.

 

 

The decision to place someone in long-term care is not made easily. It is also not unusual for caregivers to be indecisive. A decision like this takes a long time to process; one minute the carer thinks he/she is able to cope, the next he/ she finds the whole situation is way beyond him/her.  The Home Care Indicators as discussed in Unit 3 may help arrange or consolidate your thoughts.

As mentioned previously, support and information is important. The Public Health Nurse, GP, Citizen’s Information, Age Action, Family Carers Ireland and HSE website may be of assistance.

If you decide to investigate residential care homes - be sure to do your research. You might be interested in this document.

Finding a Suitable Nursing Home for a Relative with Dementia: A Guide for Family Caregivers to Placing a Relative with Dementia in a Nursing Home Available here.