When Should A Person With Dementia Go Into A Care Home?

Deciding when someone with dementia should move into a care home is rarely a straightforward or easy decision, as there are usually numerous factors to consider. Ultimately, the decision has to balance the person’s safety, health, and quality of life with the wellbeing and capacity of the people caring for them.

Understanding Dementia & Changing Needs

Dementia is an umbrella term for a range of symptoms that gradually affect memory, problem-solving, communication, and behaviour. Alzheimer’s disease is by far the most common cause. It’s a progressive condition, which sadly means it will worsen over time.

In broad terms, the main types of dementia fall into four key categories (though it’s not an exhaustive list): Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies, and frontotemporal dementia.

When it comes to how dementia changes someone’s needs, we often think in terms of three stages, though these aren’t set in stone and can vary a lot from person to person.

Early stage: People might still manage most daily tasks but start needing help with things like planning, organising, finances, or keeping on top of bills. They’re often getting by at home with support from family or friends, but their social life tends to slow down as confidence fades.

Middle stage: This builds on the early challenges but requires much more hands-on help – whether from family, carers, or both – for things like personal care, meals, or medication.

Late stage: Physical decline becomes more obvious, with greater risks like falls, mobility issues, and needing round-the-clock support. No stage has a fixed timeline; needs can shift suddenly due to health changes or infections.

Key Signs That It Might Be Time For A Care Home

So, at what point does a loved one need to consider a care home?

Safety Concerns:

Getting lost often when out and about, or suddenly not recognising familiar streets and landmarks, can be a real warning sign. Everyday safety at home can also become an issue, for example leaving the cooker on or the bath running and not realising, which can easily lead to accidents. On top of this, frequent falls, bruises or unexplained injuries may suggest that the person is no longer as safe as they once were.

Everyday Life Becoming Unrecognisable:

Another red flag is when day‑to‑day life starts to break down. This might look like poor personal hygiene, not washing or changing clothes, or finding it very difficult to get dressed without help. You might also notice problems with eating and drinking, such as significant weight loss, signs of dehydration, or food being left untouched. When basic daily tasks become a struggle, even with support, it may be time to think about whether more structured care is needed.

Behaviour Changes:

Behavioural changes can be just as important as physical ones. Increasing agitation, aggression, or distress that is very hard to manage at home can put a huge strain on everyone. Some people may experience hallucinations, paranoia, or severe anxiety, which can be frightening and often need specialist support. These changes can take a heavy emotional toll on both the person themselves and the people caring for them.

Impact On The Main Carer Or Family:

It is also crucial to look at how the caring role is affecting the main carer or family. Constant tiredness, broken sleep, ongoing stress or low mood can be signs of carer burnout. Sometimes the carer’s own health begins to suffer because they are trying to do too much for too long. When a carer no longer feels able to keep their loved one safe at home, despite doing their best, that in itself is an important signal that a care home may need to be considered.

How To Get Diagnosed

If you are worried about yourself or someone you care about, it is important to seek medical advice so things can be properly assessed. Many different conditions can cause similar symptoms, so getting a clear diagnosis really helps you understand what is going on and what support is needed. Your first step should be to make an appointment with your local GP.

Balancing Wishes & Safety

Deciding on a care home is rarely a straightforward choice, and most families don’t wake up one day suddenly “ready” for it. It usually comes after a lot of small moments and difficult conversations. One of the most important things is listening to what your loved one wants, while they are still able to talk about it. Chatting early about what matters to them – staying close to home, being near family, having a garden, or living somewhere quiet – can really help guide decisions later on.

As dementia progresses, it can become harder for them to fully understand their options or clearly say what they would choose, which is why those earlier talks are so valuable. When that point comes, families and professionals often have to think in terms of what is genuinely in the person’s best interests. That means weighing up how safe they are, how well their health is being managed, and whether their emotional needs are being met. It is also important to remember that choosing a care home is not the same as giving up. Sometimes, it is a recognition that one or two people simply cannot provide the level of care that a whole team can. The carer’s wellbeing matters too; being exhausted, worried and run down helps no one. Accepting extra help, including a move to a care home, can be a deeply caring and loving decision, even if it feels painful at the time.

Preparing For A Move

Moving into a care home is a big step, so a little preparation can make all the difference. Try to involve your loved one as much as possible – let them pick out familiar things like photos, favourite bedding, a cherished ornament or some music to make the room feel like theirs. A simple “about me” sheet with their hobbies, likes, dislikes and key memories helps staff connect with them as a person right away - this will really help with the transition.

On the emotional side, talk about the move gently and honestly, focusing on the positives like extra support and company. Plan short, familiar first visits so they see your face and feel secure. After the move, stay connected through regular visits, joining activities, celebrating birthdays, and chatting with staff about their care and preferences. It shows you’re still very much part of their world. Ultimately, a care home can bring safety and structure, freeing up families to enjoy a closer, less stressful relationship.

Ready to explore Angusfield House?
If you're in Aberdeen and looking for compassionate, specialist dementia care in a secure and nurturing environment, Angusfield House Care Home stands out. Located in the West End, we offer tailored nursing dementia care with 24/7 trained staff, calming gardens, and activities designed for wellbeing – all in a homely setting that prioritises dignity and joy.