Admission into a care setting is often made based on a snapshot of someone’s health and abilities at a given moment. However, care needs are rarely static. Over time, physical health, cognitive function, or medical complexity can change, sometimes gradually and sometimes unexpectedly.
When care needs increase after admission, families are often left wondering what happens next. Understanding the process that follows a change in needs helps avoid confusion, delays, and unnecessary stress, while ensuring that care remains safe, appropriate, and legally compliant.
Why Care Needs Change Over Time
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Care needs may increase for many reasons. Progressive conditions can lead to declining mobility or cognition, recovery from illness may be slower than expected, or new health issues may emerge. In some cases, the original assessment may no longer reflect day-to-day reality.
An increase in care needs does not mean that the initial decision was wrong. It reflects the natural evolution of health and dependency, particularly in older adults.
How Changes in Care Needs Are Identified
In most cases, increased care needs become apparent through changes in daily functioning. These may include greater difficulty with personal care, increased falls risk, worsening confusion, or more complex medical requirements.
When these changes are observed consistently, they should trigger a review. Timely recognition is critical to prevent gaps between needs and support.
The Reassessment Process Explained
When care needs increase, a reassessment should be carried out. This involves reviewing physical health, cognitive ability, mobility, medical requirements, and overall safety.
Reassessment ensures that the level of care remains appropriate and that support aligns with current needs rather than past assumptions.
What a Reassessment Typically Considers
| Area Reviewed | What Is Assessed | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Personal care needs | Ability to wash, dress, and use the toilet | Determines level of daily support required |
| Mobility and safety | Transfers, walking ability, falls risk | Prevents injury and emergency situations |
| Cognitive function | Memory, orientation, decision-making | Identifies supervision and safeguarding needs |
| Medical complexity | Medication, monitoring, clinical interventions | Determines whether nursing care is required |
| Emotional wellbeing | Mood, distress, behaviour changes | Supports mental health and quality of life |
What Happens If the Current Level of Care Is No Longer Suitable
If a reassessment shows that care needs exceed the level of support currently provided, adjustments must be made. This may involve increasing staffing input, changing the type of care delivered, or reassessing funding arrangements.
The priority is to ensure safety and dignity. Continuing with inadequate support once needs are clearly higher can expose the individual to harm and create legal risks.
How Increased Care Needs Affect Funding
An increase in care needs may affect how care is funded. Changes in support level can trigger a review of financial contributions or eligibility for additional funding.
Families are often surprised to learn that funding arrangements are linked to care needs, not just financial circumstances. This makes reassessment a critical step when needs change.
The Importance of Acting Early
Delaying reassessment when care needs increase often leads to crisis situations. Falls, medication errors, or sudden deterioration can occur when support does not keep pace with changing needs.
Early action allows for planned transitions rather than emergency decisions.
The Role of Families in the Process
Families play a vital role in identifying changes and advocating for reassessment. They are often the first to notice subtle declines that may not be immediately visible to professionals.
Clear communication, documentation, and persistence help ensure that concerns are taken seriously and addressed promptly.
Common Misconceptions About Increasing Care Needs
One common misconception is that increasing care needs automatically mean relocation. In reality, the focus is first on adjusting support appropriately. Another misunderstanding is that reassessment is optional. In fact, reassessment is essential whenever needs change significantly.
Understanding these points helps families approach the situation calmly and constructively.
FAQ – When Care Needs Increase After Admission
What should I do if care needs increase after admission?
Request a reassessment as soon as consistent changes are observed.
Who is responsible for initiating reassessment?
Anyone involved in care can raise concerns, including family members.
Does increased care always mean higher costs?
Not always, but funding arrangements may be reviewed.
Can care needs decrease again?
Yes. Care levels should reflect current needs and can change in either direction.
What if reassessment is delayed?
Delays should be challenged if safety or wellbeing is at risk.
Need help finding a care home?
Senior Home Plus offers free personalized guidance to help you find a care facility that suits your health needs, budget, and preferred location in the UK.
Call us at 0203 608 0055 to get expert assistance today.
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