Deciding when a loved one with dementia should move into a care home is never easy. It is a deeply personal and emotional choice that often comes with feelings of guilt, concern, and uncertainty. However, as the condition progresses, there may come a point when professional care becomes essential to ensure safety, comfort, and overall quality of life.
At Runwood Homes, we understand how difficult it can be for families to decide when the time is right for professional care. That is why our care homes which offer dementia care are thoughtfully designed to provide a secure, supportive and compassionate environment where individuals can feel safe and valued. Through our dedicated Dementia Care Programme, each resident receives personalised support that not only addresses their care needs but also helps them maintain their identity, lifestyle and independence. We take the time to understand how dementia affects each person differently, offering tailored assistance to help them navigate challenges with dignity and confidence.
In this post, we explore some of the key signs that it may be time to consider a care home, and how such a move can benefit both the person with dementia and their family.
Understanding the Progression of Dementia
Dementia is a progressive condition, which means symptoms tend to worsen over time. In the early stages, individuals may manage relatively well with minimal support at home. However, as the condition advances, cognitive decline, confusion, unpredictability and increasing dependence can make daily life more difficult.
Some people may be able to live independently for longer, while others require care sooner. Every person’s journey with dementia is different, but recognising when home care is no longer enough is crucial in ensuring long-term wellbeing and safety.
Signs It Might Be Time for a Care Home
Here are some indicators that a move into a care home may be the most appropriate step:
1. Increasing Care Needs
As dementia progresses, tasks such as washing, dressing, eating, and taking medication may become difficult or impossible without help. If the level of care required exceeds what can be safely managed at home, particularly for family carers, it may be time to consider residential support.
2. Safety Concerns
Frequent falls, wandering, forgetting to turn off appliances, or becoming lost, even in familiar surroundings, are serious signs that home may no longer be a safe place. A care home offers a secure environment specifically designed to reduce these risks.
3. Carer Burnout
Family members often take on the role of carer, but over time this can lead to physical and emotional exhaustion. If caring for a loved one is affecting your health or wellbeing, it is important to seek additional support. A care home can provide much needed respite and peace of mind.
4. Social Isolation
Those living with dementia may begin to withdraw or lose confidence in social situations. Care homes provide regular interaction, structured activities, and a strong sense of community, helping residents stay engaged and connected.
5. Night Time Disturbances
Worsening dementia can lead to disrupted sleep patterns, night time wandering, or increased confusion in the evening (known as sundowning). The person’s needs can be unpredictable at times, which can make things hard to manage at home. A care home with 24-hour support may be better able to provide the help and supervision needed.
Benefits of a Care Home Offering Dementia Care
Runwood Homes’ care home environments are specifically tailored to meet the complex needs of those living with memory loss and cognitive decline. Moving into a care home does not mean giving up independence – it is about receiving the right support to live safely, comfortably, and with dignity.
We have 37 years of experience in delivering the highest quality of life for individuals living with dementia. Our approach is rooted in truly listening to what our residents need from us – a compassionate, patient, and thoughtful attitude from every member of the team. All staff receive careful training in dementia care and are guided by their home’s dedicated Dementia CHAMPIONS.
Our highly trained staff offer:
- Person centred care plans
- Dementia friendly routines and environments
- Meaningful activities and social engagement
- Safe and homely surroundings
- Emotional and practical support for families
Residents benefit from nutritious meals, medical oversight, companionship, and carefully designed spaces that reduce anxiety and promote wellbeing.
Involving Your Loved One in the Decision
If possible, involve your loved one in conversations about their future care. While this may not always be feasible depending on the stage of dementia, discussing preferences early can help ensure their wishes are respected and reduce distress later on.
Visiting care homes together, talking through routines, or sharing reassurance that they will still be close to family can ease the transition. At Runwood Homes, we work closely with families to make the move as smooth and comfortable as possible.
Supporting Families Through the Transition
We know that placing a loved one in a care home can be emotionally difficult. Our team is here to support not only our residents but also their families. Whether it is providing regular updates, arranging visits, or simply offering a listening ear, we believe that care should extend beyond the individual.
Family members often find relief in knowing their loved one is in a safe, comfortable place where their needs are fully met. This allows families to reconnect in new ways – focusing on quality time together rather than day-to-day care responsibilities.
Empathy, Experience and Care
Knowing the right time to move a loved one with dementia into a care home is never straightforward. But if safety, wellbeing, and quality of life are being compromised at home, professional care may be the most compassionate choice.
At Runwood Homes, our care homes offering dementia care across the UK provide experienced support in warm, welcoming environments where residents can continue to thrive. If you are considering this step for a loved one, we are here to guide you with empathy, experience, and care.
Find your nearest care home or get in touch with our friendly team to arrange a visit today.
