When is it time to consider long-term care?
One of the most difficult decisions a person can make is when to enter a long-term care facility. In some scenarios, the patient may not have a choice.
Long-term care is custodial care that’s required for individuals who have lost their ability to function independently on a daily basis due to physical frailty, cognitive impairment or chronic illness.
At Cass County Medical Care Facility, extended stays and long-term care stays are appropriate for individuals that require greater levels of care and support than can not be provided at home or within an independent living setting. Long-term care facilities, such as Cass County Medical Care Facility, provide around-the-clock assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing and eating.
It can be hard to admit you or a loved one needs help, but sometimes it’s necessary. There are several signs that may indicate it is time for long-term care.
We’ll discuss some of those clues and what they mean for you and your loved ones.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
The most common reason someone may enter a long-term care facility is due to the natural aging process. As we age, our bodies change and we may no longer be able to do the things we once could. This can be difficult to accept, but it’s important to remember these changes are normal. Some of the changes that come with aging include:
- Decreased muscle mass
- Loss of bone density
- Reduced flexibility
- Decreased balance
- Slower reflexes
These changes can make it difficult to do everyday activities, such as bathing, cleaning and cooking. If you or your loved one is having increasing difficulty with these activities, it may be time to consider long-term care.
Another common reason why people enter long-term care facilities is due to chronic illness. Chronic illnesses are conditions that last for a long time and can be difficult to manage. Some examples of chronic illnesses include:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Parkinson’s disease
- Cancer
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
Long-term care facilities can provide the 24-hour care and supervision that is often needed to help treat and manage such illnesses.
Often coupled with more evident signs of cognitive or physical decline, other indicators that long-term care may be necessary include:
- Isolation from friends and family
- Difficulty paying bills or managing medications
- Poor nutrition or weight loss
- Changes in mood or behavior
If you are noticing any of these signs in you or your loved one, it is important to self-examine or talk to others about long-term care options. It’s also critical to consult with a doctor to determine if long-term care is the best option. Remember, long-term care is not a sign of weakness; it’s a way to ensure our vulnerable population receives the care and assistance they need.
HOSPICE CARE
Hospice care can be a type of extended care for people who are nearing the end of life. Cass County Medical Care Facility hospice care services are provided by a team of healthcare professionals who maximize comfort for a person who is terminally ill by reducing pain and addressing physical, psychological, social and spiritual needs. To help families, our hospice care services also provides counseling, respite care and practical support.
The goal of hospice care is to support the highest quality of life possible for whatever time remains.
Contact Cass County Medical Care Facility today to speak with our staff and learn more about our long-term care facility.