Moving into Aged Care: Seven ways to know it’s time If you or someone you love cannot look after themselves as well as they used to, it might be time to consider residential care. Considering full-time aged care can be a challenging and emotional process. Care homes often carry a negative stereotype, which can affect or delay the decision to move into residential care. Despite this, most care homes offer beautiful, peaceful spaces where older people can receive loving and nurturing care at any time of day. Residents can connect and socialise, be supported in the activities they love doing, and enjoy a wholly positive experience. The choice to move into care empowers residents to live the life they want, eased by the support of professionals. But how do you know when it’s time to move? And what is the difference between normal ageing and more concerning symptoms? We speak to Sunita and Pru, two senior Aged Care Nurses at BaptistCare, to ask what signs to look out for, and when it might be time to consider a move into residential care. 1. An increase in falls or accidents “The main thing for families to consider is whether their loved one is safe whilst living in the community,” says Sunita. “If their mobility is reduced, this heightens the risk of frequent accidents and injuries.” Have you noticed an increase in minor accidents like small trips and falls, regularly burning food, or dropping things?
Or perhaps there’s been a spike in more serious incidents, like a painful fall, untreated wounds, or an increase in hospital visits? In which case, it’s worth discussing this as soon as possible with your GP. At residential care homes, staff are on hand 24/7 to support older people as they move around and get on with their day. Whilst those living at home can sometimes be afraid to go out in case they fall, a care home can offer a rejuvenated sense of confidence, with residents feeling supported and encouraged to keep doing the things they love. 2. Unintentional weight loss Losing weight is not always a normal sign of ageing. If an older family member has lost weight and become significantly frailer, it’s important to pay attention. “Skipping meals is surprisingly common and happens for a number of reasons,” says senior Aged Care Nurse, Pru. “It could be because the person is experiencing memory loss, and believes they’ve already eaten. “Or the person might not be physically able to get up and prepare themselves something to eat – particularly if it’s painful to move around. “We also see older people who’ve recently experienced a bereavement, or who are affected by loneliness and/or depression, which can result in loss of appetite.” Whatever the reason, a sudden loss of weight is a common, early sign that your loved one may need some additional support.