A loved one should enter memory care when their cognitive issues make it unsafe for them to live on their own. Safety concerns can include wandering, physical injuries or lack of personal care. When to move into memory care depends on the brain disorder’s advance, which varies between individuals. Symptoms can fluctuate, making it difficult to know when your loved one should enter memory care because they might have good and bad days.

In the early stages of Alzheimer’s or dementia, your loved one might be able to stay in their home, with or without assistance. Home health aides or family caregivers can provide enough support sometimes to keep them safe and independent. Some technologies, such as security cameras and GPS tracking, let you monitor your loved one when you can’t be with them. However, the senior might eventually reach a point when living at home is no longer safe. Looking for red flags can help you decide to move your loved one to a memory care facility.

How to Know When Your Loved One Is No Longer Safe

Safety is the primary consideration when choosing memory care services. As cognitive function decreases, your loved one might wander from home or get lost when they’re out, potentially putting them in risky situations. They might forget medications and medical appointments, which may have a detrimental impact on other health conditions. People with memory issues can inadvertently create dangerous situations, such as leaving the stove on or not locking the door.

If your loved one shows signs of not being able to take care of themselves and their personal safety, it could be time for memory care. Staff in these facilities provide the type of care your loved one now needs. There will also be surveillance cameras, wearable wandering alert devices and access control systems to keep them safe.

Other Signs That It’s Time for Memory Care

Decreases in cognitive functioning can happen suddenly or gradually, so tracking how your loved one acts can help you notice changes. In addition to safety concerns, some signs that memory care might be necessary include:

  • Lack of grooming
  • Aggression, withdrawal or lack of cooperation
  • Unsanitary living conditions
  • Late bills
  • Unexplained injuries
  • Personal safety risks to caregivers

If you suspect it could be time to move to a memory care facility, work with your loved one’s doctor to make the right decision. They will perform simple tests and evaluate your loved one and make a recommendation about the appropriate type of care.