Do You Need Overnight Care?
A list of things to consider when deciding if you or a loved one needs an overnight caretaker.
The realization that oneself or a loved one might need overnight care is a significant crossroads. It marks the intersection of independent living and the need for additional assistance, and it can often be a challenging decision to make. In this article, we list some things to consider when making this decision, unearthing signs and signals that can guide the way towards understanding when overnight care becomes necessary.
If your loved one is having trouble sleeping through the night, experiencing frequent night-time wakefulness or disturbances, this may indicate a need for overnight care.
If there are increased instances of falls, trips, or other accidents during the night, it could suggest that your loved one may benefit from overnight assistance. Check out this page for more information on creating a safe home environment for seniors.
Many aging adults, particularly those with cognitive impairments, may experience "sundowning" - increased confusion or agitation in the late afternoon or evening. If these symptoms are significant, overnight care may be beneficial.
If your loved one tends to wander or leave the house during the night, this is a clear sign they may require overnight supervision for their safety.
If your loved one has a complex medication schedule that requires doses during the night, or if they have trouble managing their medication regimen, overnight care can ensure they take the right medicines at the right times.
Loneliness or fear can be exacerbated at night. If your loved one expresses a fear of being alone at night, or experiences heightened anxiety during the evening, having someone there can provide comfort and reassurance.
If your loved one needs assistance with personal care tasks during the night, such as using the bathroom or changing incontinence products, overnight care can provide the necessary help.
If you or other family caregivers are experiencing significant stress, fatigue, or disruption to your own sleep because of night-time care responsibilities, it may be time to consider overnight professional care for respite.
Don't hesitate to seek professional guidance. Health care professionals like doctors, social workers, or geriatric care managers can provide valuable insights into whether overnight care might be beneficial based on your loved one's health status and care needs.
Consider the overall quality of life of your loved one. If they (or you, as their primary caregiver) are constantly stressed, fatigued, or worried about safety during the night, overnight care might be a suitable option to improve the quality of life and provide peace of mind.
Tanner Gish
