5 signs your loved one with dementia needs more care

How to know when it’s time to take the next step

Are you caring for someone with dementia? You may be asking yourself, “Is it time for more help?” or “am I doing enough?”

In Australia, over 400,000 people living with dementia, and this number is expected to double by 2058. It’s a unique journey that many families face, and it can be difficult to know when it’s time to start looking for extra help. 

At HillView Care, our aged care homes offer comprehensive dementia care on the Gold Coast, providing personalised support and a caring, experienced dementia care team who make residents’ needs their number one priority. 

From our experience, here are a few signs it might be time to consider the next step, like a dementia-specific aged care home.

Are your loved ones’ needs starting to exceed what you can safely manage at home?

During the early stages of dementia, routines and safety measures can help your loved one stay independent at home. But as the illness progresses, care needs become more complex and constant.

If you’re finding it harder to keep up with their personal care, medications, mobility or behaviours, it may be a sign they now need the round-the-clock support that residential care provides.

At HillView Care, our dementia team is trained to manage all stages of the condition, so your loved one’s care evolves as their needs change, and you’re no longer managing it alone. 

Are you worried about their safety when you’re not there?

Wandering, forgetting to turn off appliances, or becoming disoriented even in familiar places can be dangerous as well as stressful for you as a carer. If you’re constantly “on alert” or afraid to leave them alone, that’s a lot to handle emotionally.

At HillView Care, the secure environments at our Ashmore and Merrimac aged care homes are designed to protect residents while still promoting independence and dignity. You can relax knowing your loved one is safe and never completely alone.

Are their behaviours becoming harder to manage?

Individuals with dementia can start to display some challenging behaviours like aggression, anxiety, refusal to eat or sleep, or sudden changes in mood. These behaviours can be accompanied by a lot of confusion or even distress.

Our specially trained staff at HillView Care have dementia-specific care approaches, helping to gently de-escalate situations and keep your loved one calm, connected and comfortable.

Are you feeling emotionally or physically exhausted?

It might be hard to admit, but carer burnout isn’t a myth. If you’re constantly tired, overwhelmed, or feeling like you’ve got nothing left to give, please know it’s not a reflection of how much you love them. It’s a sign you need help, too.

Transitioning your loved one into a dementia care home isn’t about giving up, it’s about ensuring your loved one has the support they need while you look after your own health. We work closely with families during the transition, so you still feel involved and supported every step of the way.

Is your loved one withdrawing or seeming less engaged at home?

Two things that are important for people living with dementia are social connection and routine. But if your loved one is spending most of their time isolated, sleeping during the day, or losing interest in activities, it may be a sign they need more stimulation and interaction.

At HillView Care, our residents are encouraged to stay engaged in daily life, whether it’s enjoying a garden walk, attending music sessions, or simply chatting with staff and other residents.

Don’t wait for a crisis to make the decision

Many families tend to wait until things reach breaking point before seeking help. But it doesn’t have to get to that stage. Starting the conversation early gives you and your loved one time to find the right fit and transition with less stress.

At HillView Care, we offer specialist dementia care in a warm, homelike environment. Our dementia care team provides compassionate, tailored support, ensuring your loved one is safe, respected and cared for.

Want to learn more? Get in touch to chat with our team or book a tour of our Gold Coast aged care homes. We’re here when you’re ready.