Why It May Not Be Safe For An Elder With Memory Problems To Live At Home
It's a difficult decision to place a loved elder in a care facility, but sometimes it's a necessary one. If your loved one is struggling with memory impairment due to a problem like dementia, it may be time for them to leave their home and go somewhere that can provide them with care around the clock. While it's initially a good idea for a loved one to stay somewhere that they feel comfortable in and remember the most, it doesn't always stay that way. This is why you should consider an elderly memory care home like Carillon Oaks.
Wandering
One of the biggest problems that people with dementia tend to face as the disease continues to develop is that they start to wander. At one time or another, you may have heard news stories about families desperately searching for their loved ones who have some form of dementia or Alzheimer's. This is because of the proclivity of wandering that happens with the disease. While the urge isn't fully understood, it could cause your loved one to simply open up the door one day and wander off somewhere into their neighborhood and surrounding areas. This is a terrifying prospect for most, as it not only leaves them in danger of being lost but they could also be in danger of being a victim of crime while they're outside with their defenses lowered.
By putting your loved one in a care home, you ensure that this won't happen. While they will be in a new environment, most care facilities do their best to provide a homey, comfortable atmosphere that feels like home even if it isn't. The facility will be properly controlled so that your loved one won't be able to just walk out and leave.
Self-Harm
Another problem that some people with dementia face is the risk of self-harm. It's not always intentional, but people with this disease can sometimes attempt to do something as simple as making a sandwich and end up badly hurting themselves. This is because dementia and related diseases tend to impair mobile coordination and even pain receptors in the later stages. Unfortunately, unless you're around 24/7 to monitor your loved one, this is a risk they could face.
A care home won't let your loved one have access to anything that could potentially hurt them, like knives. They'll also have constant supervision around the clock so that their safety is ensured.