When Is Care Needed For Dementia Sufferers?

Dementia can progress at different rates, depending on the type of condition and the age of the patient. 

Many people can carry on living independently in the early stage of dementia for a while before they require home care services, as their biggest symptom is simply memory loss or mood changes. 

However, by the time they hit the middle stage of deterioration, they are likely to require care assistance, as their symptoms mean they could be a danger to themselves without it. 

Alzheimer’s UK explains that memory problems will worsen at this point, as well as their linguistic abilities. For instance, they might struggle finding the right words or remembering what they are saying half way through a sentence. 

Their orientation problems are likely to get worse, and they can often become confused. 

Patients might become delusional, believing things that are not true. This can result in paranoia, meaning they no longer trust their loved ones. 

They may also have hallucinations, as well as suffer from anxiety, depression or apathy, adding another challenge for relatives to handle. 

Family members who try to look after the patient without support can struggle with their change in behaviour at this stage, which can include screaming, shouting, agitation and restlessness. 

Their sleep can deteriorate, they might do things that are not socially appropriate, and some behaviours can become repetitive. 

What’s more, sufferers often struggle to use the toilet or walk in this middle stage, which means there is a higher chance of them falling. Therefore, it is unsafe for them to be left alone for long periods of time.  

This is why care home services are often required, not only to assist the patient but to provide relief to friends and family, who have tried to look after them alone up to this point.