Determining when it is time to consider aged care is a personal
decision and one that can be daunting. Ultimately, the decision to
transition to aged care, should be based on the professional
evaluation of an individual’s health, safety, and social factors
including the individual’s financial position. Early planning is
paramount to ensure an optimal care path is selected for those
requiring care.
Planning for the transition can be greatly aided by starting the
conversation early with family and seeking professional financial
and clinical advice. This approach helps to ensure informed
decisions are made at each milestone along the aged care
journey.
Both in-home care options and residential aged care should be
considered and evaluated to ensure the best option is selected.
At Carevisory we are often asked when the right time is to
commence the conversation. Noticeable changes in behaviour is a
key indicator that it’s time to explore aged care options.
If someone is living with a condition that impacts cognitive abilities
such as dementia, their behaviour can change substantially over time.
It may be harder to notice these changes if the person lives alone, but
there are some key signs to watch out for, that may indicate more
intensive care is required. Common signs and factors that might
indicate it’s time to explore age cares options include:
Changes in Daily Functioning
Difficulty with Routine Activities: Challenges with everyday tasks
such as cooking/food management, cleaning, personal hygiene &
care, or managing medications can signal the need for additional
support.
Mobility Challenges: Increased falls or difficulty moving around
may require a safer, more accessible environment or specialised
assistance.
Health and Medical Needs
Chronic Health Conditions: Worsening or multiple health issues
may require ongoing medical attention and monitoring.
An increase in the number of ‘emergency episodes’ such as falls,
medications mishaps, hospital admissions, or GP visits, or a
greater frequency of these instances over a short period, can
indicate a decline in mobility or cognitive skills.
If this is the case, it’s important to discuss care options before a
serious incident or injury occurs.
Cognitive Decline: Noticeable memory loss, disorientation or
confusion can affect safety and independent living.
Mental distress:If there are signs of mental distress, it’s time to
start a discussion about more permanent care options.
Emotional and Social Considerations
Signs of social isolation include a decline in mobility, hearing, sight
or other abilities can impact motivation to be social with others.
Emotional and Social Considerations
Signs of social isolation include a decline in mobility, hearing, sight
or other abilities can impact motivation to be social with others.
Family Caregiver Stress: When family members find it
challenging to provide consistent care and support, whilst
managing other commitments in their lives. Providing care can
also become challenging when it is no longer welcome and there
is a change in attitude towards receiving assistance.
Safety Concerns
Home Safety: If the home environment has become unsafe or
modifications are impractical.
Physical signs
- Malnutrition: Weight loss due to a reduced appetite
- Increasing muscle weakness
- Decreasing mobility
- Bladder or bowel incontinence
- Exhaustion
- Increase in existing symptoms
Making important decisions in a timely manner is imperative.Make
sure time is on your side. Have the discussion when there is the
ABILITY to make a choice as opposed to being FORCED to make a
decision. The ideal scenario for everyone involved is one where the individual
requiring care has the opportunity to actively participate in the
decision-making process regarding their aged care.