Between your work commitments and looking after your spouse and child, the added responsibility of being a filial child and attending to your elderly loved ones’ needs can be challenging, especially if they are severely weak or suffer from illnesses that render them unable to care for themselves. When this happens, you might even wonder whether placing your loved one in a private or government nursing home in Singapore is a good idea.
Of course, we understand that many would struggle with this decision. However, it is essential to approach it from a place of love for your loved one and empathy for yourself. While you want to do your best to support them, you might not have the time and resources to provide long-term care on a regular basis. In such instances, placing them in a nursing home could be in the best interest of everyone.
Understanding How Nursing Homes In Singapore Work
Nursing homes offer long-term residential care, providing assistance to residents with daily nursing care needs or who require help with most of their activities of daily living. Select nursing homes even have specific dementia and psychiatric facilities catering to residents who need specialised care and support. Some nursing homes also offer short-term care options, termed respite care, that lasts from 1 to 4 weeks, allowing caregivers to take a temporary break from their caregiving duties.
Learn More: A Guide To Nursing Home Costs & Subsidies In Singapore
Why Placing Your Loved One In A Nursing Home May Be In The Best Interest Of All
Reason #1: Your Loved One Will Receive Round-The-Clock Care
While some elderly remain self-sufficient and appear younger than their actual age, others may not be able to care for themselves and require help with basic needs, such as eating, walking, and using the restroom. They may even have illnesses that affect their mental capacity, resulting in them being confused and forgetful, even in familiar situations. Their confusion can cause them to end up hurting themselves. As a result, they need round-the-clock care.
However, despite your best efforts, you might not always be able to attend to your loved one’s every care and basic need, especially if you have work and other personal commitments. Nevertheless, leaving them alone in such situations may not be a safe choice. In such cases, it is recommended to send them to a nursing home so they can have their daily needs taken care of and receive the best senior care possible.
Reason #2: Caring For Someone 24/7 Can Be Physically And Emotionally Draining
Caring for someone 24/7 can be physically, mentally, and emotionally draining. As a result, you might not help but be stressed and upset about your situation, even if you feel guilty about these feelings. Furthermore, when you are unwell or unhappy, your mood might affect your loved ones and distress them. You will also not be in a suitable condition to provide the adequate care they need, especially when you are physically drained and exhausted.
Nursing homes can help alleviate your caregiving duties, allowing you to receive the rest you need and deserve. These elderly care facilities are equipped with the proper amenities and well-trained staff to ensure your loved one’s every need is well-taken care of. You can still fulfil your filial piety by visiting them regularly at the nursing home.
Reason #3: Ensure Your Loved One’s Safety
As your loved ones age, their skeletal muscles will start to weaken, and their vision will deteriorate. As a result, they are more prone to being in an accident or suffering a severe fall. If they have dementia, you might also worry about them getting lost and having trouble finding their way back home if they are by themselves.
Placing your elderly loved ones in a nursing home can ensure their safety and security while allowing you to keep track of their whereabouts daily, thus alleviating stress. These centres are designed and constructed with residents in mind, with well-trained professionals assigned to assist them and facilities equipped with various safety features to safeguard their overall health and well-being.
We understand that placing your loved ones in a nursing home is not an easy decision to make. You might even feel anxious and guilty for considering it. However, rest assured that it is perfectly normal to feel this way.
The essential thing is to discuss this matter with the family, including your loved ones and anyone involved in their care. Take your time, and know you do not have to make this choice alone. We also recommend scheduling a visit to get a feel for the facility, staff, and residents to ensure you make an informed decision in their best interests.
At Orange Valley, we are committed to making our residents feel valued, assured, and comfortable in every aspect of care rendered towards them while ensuring a strong sense of belonging at our various senior care centres and luxury nursing homes in Singapore. Do not hesitate to contact us today to learn more about our senior care services and programmes.