Dementia worse in nursing home

So sorry you’re experiencing this! I remember feeling this way when my mom went to Assisted Living.

I think sometimes when they are placed, 2 things can happen: 1) there are more “eyes” on them and you become more conscious of their changes, and 2) there is a period of adjustment during which they are very disoriented. Either way, it’s so scary and sad. That being said give him some time. It is likely much safer for him. You may be surprised at how much calmer he is with a higher level of care.

My heart goes out to you: this is not easy.

Dementia will worsen, no matter where a person lives. And yes, they will forget things they have known a long time when those things are no longer in front of them.

I agree with Bluebird that when they first move from their own home to a facility, they sometimes "relax" into their natural confusion since they are taken care of and no longer need to fight so hard to function on their own. It's also possible that we family members finally see the reality of their situations when we get them into care. I remember feeling stricken with the realization that mom had needed this care for a long time before I became aware of it or took action. When people asked if I felt guilty for "putting her in a home" I told them no, I feel guilty that I didn't get her this help sooner.