Deciding that it is time to move someone into a nursing home is one of the hardest decisions you may ever have to make. Especially if the person in question is completely against the idea, or unaware of how much their needs are increasing. Not only are they giving up independence, their own home, and their community, they may be committing themselves to being in a nursing home for the rest of their lives. However, this is also a difficult decision for family members, and no one wants to see a loved one in distress. But it is important that you consider your own needs and the needs of other family members, such as your children. Furthermore, a nursing home may actually be the best thing for them. 

If you do decide that it is time to move a loved one into a nursing home, then make sure you do your research as there has been a rise in the number of cases in which people are suing a nursing home for negligence.

Increase in care needs

They may be finding it harder to get out of bed or move from their chair. They could also be having accidents and not making it to the toilet. Or perhaps they are struggling to keep their homes or themselves clean. You may find that you are having to more and more for them. You can find out more about caring for the needs of a loved one here. 

You don’t have any spare time

You may find that your spare time is becoming increasingly less. You may be visiting your loved one more and more or doing more and more jobs on their behalf. Perhaps you are having to take on the responsibility of their finances, their home upkeep, or making sure that they are adequately fed and watered. It is important that you take care of yourself when caring for a loved one. This means making time for hobbies and downtime. This may be an especially important consideration if you have children or grandchildren to look after. They need your attention to, and you do not want to miss out on spending time with them. It can also be stressful for them to witness you struggling with the increasing needs of an elderly person. While it is important that young people continue to spend time with them, quality time is most valuable. 

You have had to call police or ambulance services

If you have had to phone the police or an ambulance due to ill health or aggression, then this is a big red flag. Imagine what would happen if you were not there, or if they were dealing with a member of the public. 

You are constantly worrying

If you are constantly stressed and worried about them, then it is time for change. You cannot continue to live like that. It is not selfish, and if you are stressed, then they likely are too. Although transiting into a home will be stressful, to begin with, over time, you can have hope that things will get easier. There is no shame in reaching out for support when you need it.