The Detrimental Effects of Premature Admission to Congregate Living or Long Term Care for Seniors
Premature admission to residential care, whether it be Assisted Living or Long Term Care, can have several negative consequences for individuals. Here are some of the main reasons it can be detrimental, especially for seniors.
Quality of Care: Long-term care facilities are usually designed to cater to individuals with higher care needs. Premature admission can mean that individuals are surrounded by others with more advanced health conditions or cognitive impairments, which may not align with their current needs. This mismatch in care levels may result in suboptimal care and limited resources being allocated to individuals who may not require them yet, or ever.
It's important to note that there are situations such as
an aggressive dementia patient with a history of physically assaulting their spouse
or care providers, where admission to residential care may be appropriate,
particularly when a senior or their caregiver’s safety is at risk. However,
when admission is premature and not based on actual current needs, or
alternative therapies have not been explored, the above-mentioned factors can
negatively impact a senior's overall well-being. It's crucial to carefully assess
and consider the individual's physical and mental health, social support
system, and other available alternatives such as Home Care, before deciding on congregate
housing placement.
- Loss of Independence: Moving into a congregate living residence often means giving up a significant amount of independence. Residents have less control over their daily routines, decision-making, and personal preferences. This loss of independence can lead to decreased self-esteem, a diminished sense of autonomy and loss of interest in the individual’s normal activities such as attending their community church, mosque or synagogue.
- Social Isolation: Being prematurely admitted to a senior care facility can result in social isolation, especially if the individual is still capable of living independently or maintaining social connections outside of the facility. Social interaction and engagement are crucial for mental and emotional well-being, and the absence of these familiar community connections can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression.
- Decreased Physical Function: Entering congregate care prematurely may result in a decline in physical function. When individuals are capable of living independently but are placed in an environment where assistance is readily available, they may become reliant on others for activities they could otherwise perform themselves. This lack of physical activity and dependence on others can lead to muscle atrophy, reduced mobility, and a decline in overall physical and mental health.
- Loss of Familiar Environment: Moving into a care residence often means leaving behind a familiar home, neighbourhood, and community. These familiar surroundings provide a sense of comfort and familiarity, which can be disrupted by a premature transition to a senior care facility. The loss of a familiar environment can be disorienting and may lead to increased stress and emotional strain.
- Financial Considerations: Assisted Living and Long-term care facilities can be expensive, and premature admission can result in unnecessary financial strain. If individuals enter a care facility before it is truly necessary, they may incur significant costs that could have been avoided if they had continued to live independently or received appropriate Home Care services. For many seniors, as little as four hours, twice a week, makes the difference in living at risk and ageing safely and comfortably in their own home.
