Rand Aid offers guidance on choosing full-time care for loved ones
“Pain, immobility or other issues can go unnoticed, not because of neglect, but because these needs often exceed the knowledge of family members or lay carers.”
For many families, deciding when to move a loved one into full-time care is one of the most difficult choices they will face.
The desire to keep a parent or partner at home for as long as possible is natural.
Home-based care offers familiarity, comfort and often one-on-one attention.
ALSO READ: Rand Aid engages global experts to advance ageing policies and care practices
However, as care needs increase, the situation can become more complex.
According to Rand Aid dementia expert Debbie Beech, private carers are often not formally trained, and there are no regulations governing their qualifications.
“Care needs become increasingly complex as conditions like dementia progress,” she explained.
“Pain, immobility or other issues can go unnoticed, not because of neglect, but because these needs often exceed the knowledge of family members or lay carers.”
Beech highlighted that caregiver burnout is another important factor to take into consideration.
Caring for a loved one requires constant attention to daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, feeding, administering medication and managing a household.
ALSO READ: Rand Aid builds vibrant care communities through Eden philosophy
“When the caregiver’s physical, emotional and mental resources are stretched to the limit, both the person receiving care and the family suffer,” explained Beech.
The benefits of structured care
A professional care facility provides consistency, routine and trained oversight, which are all essential for individuals living with dementia or frailty.
Routine helps reduce anxiety and confusion, while proper nutrition and medication management are closely monitored at professional care facilities.
Equally important is the emotional environment, with facilities following a relationship-centred approach that focuses on dignity, respect, and meaningful connections.
Residents are supported not only physically, but also emotionally and socially.
The experiences of social workers at Rand Aid facilities highlight the value of this support, from helping withdrawn residents regain their confidence to simply listening and easing their distress.
ALSO READ: Rand Aid builds vibrant care communities through Eden philosophy
Making the decision
While the decision is never easy, recognising when a loved one’s needs exceed what can safely be managed at home is an important step in ensuring their well-being.
In many cases, moving into a care facility ultimately improves quality of life for both the individual and their family.
Facilities such as Thembalami Care Centre and Ron Smith Care Centre offer 24-hour nursing care in a structured, supportive environment, helping families navigate this transition with reassurance and dignity.
To find out more, email info@randaid.co.za or visit www.randaid.co.za.
