If you have a family member or loved one who has dementia,, you may be considering moving them into your home to care for them. While there are many benefits to caring for someone with dementia in your own home, it can also be incredibly stressful, especially if they refuse to accept their diagnosis or become aware of their surroundings. If it has become apparent that it is no longer safe for your loved ones with dementia to live alone due to their condition, consider these nine signs that it’s time to move them in with you or transition them to an assisted living community.
They Are Experiencing Emotional Problems Related to Loneliness
The most obvious sign that a person with dementia is no longer safe to live alone is experiencing emotional problems related to loneliness. Loneliness can be very difficult for people living with memory loss because their minds might feel lost even though they are physically in familiar surroundings. Their ability to retain short-term memories varies depending on what type of dementia they have, so it may be hard for them to maintain feelings of companionship when alone for any length of time. If you notice your loved one becoming withdrawn or very unhappy in their surroundings – they may not want to leave their home anymore – it could be a sign that they are no longer safe living on their own.
They Are Suicidal or Acting Irrationally
If someone threatens to hurt themselves or act violently, there may be little you can do to change their minds. But it’s still important to get them help as soon as possible—even if they don’t agree. If they are feeling suicidal, you should ask them if they have a plan. They might just need your help in order to see that another option is available. Some loved ones might be at risk of walking out into traffic or having an accident because of confusion or hallucinations about where they are and what time it is.
They Are Getting Involved in Cult Activities
Oddly enough, some people with dementia like to participate in bizarre cult activities. This may be part of why it’s no longer safe for them to live alone. If they are participating in cult rituals, there’s a good chance they will be removed from their home by police officers at some point, which can create all sorts of unpleasantries. You should do what you can to protect your loved ones, so they don’t get caught up in situations that will just lead to trouble for them and everyone around them.
They Are Asking Strangers to Do Things
People with dementia sometimes cannot tell who is safe and who isn’t. They might ask strangers to do things that you would never want them to do, like lend money or visit their home unannounced. As they lose their inhibitions, people with dementia may begin to act in odd ways—like doing things that could embarrass them or putting themselves in harm’s way. If they live alone, it might be time for them to move into assisted living to have professional help watch over them.
