When should my loved one move into a residential aged care facility?

Deciding to explore residential aged care options for your loved one can be a challenging journey.

We all want to ensure that our loved one is receiving the best support possible to lead a safe and fulfilling life.

Residential care homes can offer nurturing environments where older people receive round-the-clock, quality care, tailored to their needs. In these homes, residents can connect with others, participate in activities, and provide you with peace of mind, knowing they are being well looked after.

But how do you know when it’s the right time for this transition?

In this blog post, we share 10 key signs that may indicate your loved one is ready to make the move into residential aged care.

 

1. Declining health

Frequent hospital visits, worsening chronic conditions, or significant mobility issues may indicate that more support is needed.

If you are unable to provide the care your loved one needs, they may benefit from a dedicated team of carers available 24/7 to ensure their wellbeing.

 

2. Difficulty with daily activities

Struggling with basic tasks like dressing, cooking, or cleaning can be a sign that your loved one requires further assistance. Residential aged care facilities provide structured help to ensure these daily needs are met with dignity and respect.

 

3. Safety concerns

Frequent falls, confusion, or wandering can pose serious safety risks at home. If your loved one’s safety is at risk, a residential aged care home may be the safest option for them.

Upon admission to our Caring Centres, our multidisciplinary team collaborates to develop a care plan tailored to each individual resident. This includes mobility aids like walkers, and selecting the right footwear, all aimed at providing support and minimising the risk of falls.

Additionally, you can rest assured knowing that care is always onsite and available should they need it.

 

4. Social isolation or loneliness

If your loved one is increasingly withdrawn or unable to engage socially, a community setting may offer valuable opportunities for interaction and support.

Both of our Caring Centres offer a monthly activities schedule that invites residents to explore their interests and connect with others in the community.

 

5. Medication management issues

Difficulty keeping track of medications or taking them as prescribed can lead to health complications.

At our Buckley and McMahon Caring Centres, all medication is administered by our registered nurses in the comfort and privacy of the resident’s rooms.

 

6. Cognitive decline and memory loss

If your loved one is experiencing memory loss, confusion, or disorientation can be signs that your loved one may benefit from a setting with dedicated support.

Both our Buckley and McMahon Caring Centres offer dementia-specific wings that are secure and comfortable. Our lifestyle and therapy programs are specifically designed for residents with special care needs, focusing on sensory and tactile activities.

 

7. Caregiver burnout

Family members who are primary caregivers often face significant emotional and physical strain.  If you are feeling overwhelmed, stressed and unable to look after your own wellbeing, it may be time to explore other care options for your loved one.

 

8. Nutritional deficiencies 

Weight loss or malnutrition may indicate challenges in preparing or eating meals independently.

At our Buckley and McMahon Caring Centres, meals are prepared daily by our onsite head chef and catering team.

Our dining menus are developed and approved by an accredited practicing dietitian, ensuring meals meet the Aged Care Quality Standards.

 

9. Personal hygiene neglect

If your loved one shows a noticeable decline in personal hygiene, they may be struggling with the physical demands of self-care or experiencing cognitive issues.

They may require more specialised care, such as that provided by our dedicated staff at Buckley and McMahon Caring Centres.

 

10. Frequent hospital visits

If your loved one is experiencing increasing emergency room visits and hospital stays, it may indicate that living at home is no longer the best option for them. Residential aged care can provide consistent monitoring and proactive health care, reducing the need for emergency interventions.

 

If you recognise any of these signs in your loved one, it may be time to consider a residential aged care facility where they can receive the support and care they need. At our Buckley and McMahon Caring Centres, we are committed to providing a warm, secure, and compassionate environment where residents can thrive. We invite you to reach out to our team to learn more about how we can support your family through this important transition.

 

How Amaroo can help

 

If you think your loved one may soon need to move into a residential aged care facility, it’s a good idea to explore your options in advance.

Visiting potential facilities together can help make the transition smoother and more comfortable.

At Amaroo, we offer guided tours of our Buckley Caring Centre every second Friday. This is a great opportunity for you and your loved one to experience our community firsthand, meet our caring staff, and see the services and amenities we offer.

To book your tour, simply call our friendly team on 1300 653 967 or click here.

We look forward to welcoming you!