Knowing when to consider a care home for a loved one with dementia or other neurological conditions can be a difficult decision for family caregivers to make.
Join us on Dec. 14 at The Kensington Reston for our open house, “Embracing a Positive Approach to Care Part III.”
Led by Jackie Mills, a certified Positive Approach to Care (PAC) trainer, attendees will learn practical techniques to manage and understand dementia-related behaviors.
This session will help you distinguish between normal aging signs and the more serious symptoms of dementia or other conditions, empowering you with strategies for responding with empathy and effectiveness.
Our promise is to love and care for your family as we do our own.
Introduction to Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to Care (PAC)
The Positive Approach to Care (PAC) is a framework for care that centers on the individual and offers a gentle and empathetic way of relating to and caring for loved ones exhibiting difficult symptoms related to their conditions.
PAC was first created by Teepa Snow, one of the leading educators on dementia and an occupational therapist with 40 years of clinical practice. PAC’s values align with Kensington Reston’s Promise to love and care for your family as we do our own. That’s why our care teams are all PAC-certified.
Our upcoming event, “Embracing a Positive Approach to Care,” will offer practical tips for at-home caregivers to implement with their loved ones with dementia, Alzheimer’s, or Parkinson’s.
If you’re the caregiver of a loved one who has recently shown increased signs of agitation, confusion, or wandering, join our open house event to learn effective ways of minimizing stress for everyone involved.
When it’s time for a loved one to transition to a care community
Deciding to move a loved one with dementia or Parkinson’s into a care home is one of the most challenging choices a family can face.
However, recognizing the signs that professional support is needed can ensure your loved one receives the compassionate care they deserve while also safeguarding their well-being.
The following are key indicators that it may be time to consider a care community.
1. Frequent falls and mobility issues
Safety concerns are the main reason for moving into assisted living or memory care.
If your loved one experiences frequent falls or has difficulty moving around their home, it’s a significant red flag.
Falls are the leading cause of injury among seniors and can result in serious consequences, such as fractures or hospitalizations.
- Example: Your parent has tripped multiple times over loose rugs or struggled with stairs, leading to bruises or minor injuries.
- PAC Approach: Implement fall prevention safety measures at home to create a physically supportive environment but recognize when the home can no longer be adapted sufficiently.
2. Wandering and getting lost
Wandering, often around night-time (sundowning), is a common behavior in dementia that can put your loved one at risk, especially if they leave home unattended.
- Example: They might go for a walk and forget how to return home or become disoriented in familiar places.
- PAC Approach: Use gentle guidance and reminders around the house to redirect them. However, understand that a more secure environment with round-the-clock care may be necessary for their safety.
3. Medication mismanagement
Forgetting to take medications or taking incorrect doses, such as doubling doses, can lead to serious health complications.
- Example: Pills are skipped, duplicated, or scattered around the house.
- PAC Approach: Simplify medication routines by organizing pills in a clear, easy-to-follow system—such as a labeled pill organizer that you prepare together—but professional supervision can ensure medications are managed safely if confusion persists.
4. Neglecting personal hygiene and daily tasks
Difficulty with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, and grooming, indicates a need for additional support.
- Example: Noticeable body odor, wearing the same clothes repeatedly, unkempt appearance, dirty fingernails, plaque on teeth.
- PAC Approach: Offer assistance respectfully, but if resistance or inability continues, caregivers trained in dementia care can help maintain dignity in a care community.
However, if the home remains unsafe—especially if you have concerns about potential neglect or abuse from overwhelmed caregivers—it’s important to consider a care home where safety features are integrated, and professionals can provide compassionate support.
5. Behavioral changes and emotional well-being
Significant changes in behavior, such as aggression, agitation, or depression, can be challenging to manage.
- Example: Your loved one becomes easily upset, exhibits mood swings, leaves upsetting voicemails, or shows signs of anxiety.
- PAC Approach: Use empathetic communication techniques, but recognize when professional intervention is needed for their comfort and your peace of mind.
6. Social isolation and withdrawal
Withdrawing from social activities or hobbies they once enjoyed may indicate progressing dementia.
- Example: They no longer attend church, club meetings, or family gatherings.
- PAC Approach: Encourage engagement in familiar activities and listen to their feelings. A care community can provide structured social opportunities for seniors.
7. Compromised judgment and decision-making leading to potential exploitation
Memory impairment can make them susceptible to scams or abuse.
- Example: Unusual bank withdrawals, unexplained purchases, or strangers visiting frequently.
- PAC Approach: Secure finances and monitor interactions; professional oversight from an estate manager or other specialist can ensure protection.
8. Incontinence and toileting difficulties
Incontinence difficulties with bladder or bowel control require attentive care.
- Examples: Frequent accidents, not reaching the bathroom in time, confusion about toileting, or inability to clean up after themselves.
- PAC Approach: Assist with dignity, but recognize when professional care can better address these needs.
9. Unexplained weight loss or poor nutrition
Difficulty eating or forgetting to eat can lead to malnutrition.
- Example: Food untouched, unintentional weight loss, or dehydration.
- PAC Approach: Offer regular, easy-to-eat meals. Nutritional needs are closely monitored in a care home.
10. Communication difficulties
Struggling to express themselves or understand others can cause frustration.
- Example: Trouble finding words, repeating phrases, or withdrawing from conversations.
- PAC Approach: Use simple language and active listening. Speech therapists in care communities can provide additional support.
11. Compromised driving ability
Continued driving despite safety concerns puts everyone at risk.
- Examples: Traffic violations, getting lost while driving, or accidents.
- PAC Approach: Have compassionate conversations about retiring from driving and offering to take them places.
12. Inability to recognize familiar places or people
Advanced dementia may cause disorientation even in familiar settings.
- Example: Not recognizing their own home or close family members.
- PAC Approach: Gently provide reassurance and familiar cues, but recognize when a memory care community could better help them.
13. Decline in physical health
Chronic health conditions may worsen due to neglect or inability to manage them.
- Examples: Unmanaged diabetes, hypertension, or missed medical appointments.
- PAC Approach: Coordinate healthcare and involve them in decisions. A care community offers comprehensive medical support from trained individuals.
When it’s time for a care home, trust The Kensington Reston
At The Kensington Reston, we understand the challenges caregivers face when a loved one requires more support than they can provide at home.
Our team is Positive Approach to Care certified, ensuring compassionate and specialized care tailored to your loved one’s needs.
We offer assisted living and memory care, featuring three distinct neighborhoods: The Kensington Club is for assisted living residents with mild cognitive impairment, Connections for early to mid-stage memory loss, and Haven for late-stage dementia care.
Here, your loved one will have everything they need to age in place, allowing you to return to being a family member rather than a sole caregiver.
Contact The Kensington Reston today to schedule a free tour or speak with our admissions office. Let us provide the support and peace of mind your family deserves.