This is a topic we do not often discuss, but it is an important one. At CareBuilders at Home, we do everything possible to help our clients remain safely and comfortably in their own homes. However, there are times when individuals and their families ultimately decide that transitioning to a care facility is the best option.
This is never a simple decision. Many factors contribute to it, and every situation is different. Some individuals never require facility placement. Others may need more structured support over time, particularly when cognitive decline progresses.
In some cases, caregivers may even be able to continue providing non-medical support within a facility setting. We strongly encourage families who are considering this transition to speak directly with us about what this could mean for their specific loved one.
The Home Becomes Too Unmanageable
Over time, a home may become difficult to maintain safely. If someone is no longer able to manage cleaning, meal preparation, or basic household safety — and there is not enough caregiver support in place — this may indicate that a more structured environment is necessary.
Before making that decision, families often explore increasing in-home support. Expanding services such as specialized care services can sometimes provide the additional supervision and assistance needed to delay or prevent a move.
Each case depends on the individual’s cognitive and physical abilities. Sometimes more frequent caregiver visits or a family member moving in can make remaining at home possible.
Family Is No Longer Able to Provide Care
Family caregivers often carry tremendous responsibility. There may come a time when, for many reasons, they can no longer safely provide the level of care required. A loved one’s condition may become more advanced, or the family caregiver may face their own health challenges.
Choosing a facility in these circumstances does not mean failure. In many cases, it reflects a thoughtful decision to ensure the highest level of safety and medical oversight.
Medical Needs Increase
Our home care services are strictly non-medical. While home health nursing exists, it is not a service we provide. Some individuals eventually require medical monitoring or skilled nursing that can only be delivered in an assisted living or medical facility.
Even then, companionship and non-medical support remain essential. Families often continue to coordinate visits and supportive services to maintain emotional connection and comfort.
Planning ahead can ease the stress of this possibility. Learning more about how home care intersects with end-of-life and comfort-focused services can help families prepare for changing needs. Our educational resource on palliative care and homecare offers additional guidance on navigating advanced stages of care.
This is a difficult topic, and not every client transitions to a facility. However, having open conversations early can reduce uncertainty and help families make confident, informed decisions if the time comes.
Written by Brigid Stakelum
