Seeing a senior struggle to properly take care of themselves is difficult, especially when it’s someone you love.
Family members often feel guilt and sadness when they realize they cannot provide adequate care for a loved one.
In addition, many seniors are hesitant to admit they need help out of fear of giving up their independence or moving out of a beloved home.
Determining if it’s the right time to move an older loved one into assisted living is an important and emotional decision. And you want to make the right choice for everyone involved.
In this article, we’ll discuss critical signs it may be time to consider an assisted living community for a loved one:
Changes in Hygiene
Noticing a loved one isn’t bathing frequently, has unkempt/unwashed hair, or difficulty making it to the bathroom is cause for concern.
As we age, mobility and medical issues like arthritis may make it more difficult for seniors to manage their daily hygiene.
Assisted living professionals are experts at helping residents with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting.
Signs of Isolation and Loneliness
Has your loved one stopped attending family events or socializing with friends? Do they appear sad and unmotivated?
Older adults are more susceptible to loneliness and social isolation because they are more likely to face challenges such as living alone, mobility issues, difficulty driving, and chronic illness.
Seniors who experience prolonged Isolation and loneliness are more susceptible to various physical, cognitive, and psychological health problems, including depression, hypertension, and substance abuse.
Assisted living communities are designed to entertain residents with various planned social and recreational activities.
Residents in assisted living communities often thrive once they can socialize and engage with their peers.
Frequent Falls and Injuries
If your loved one’s mobility issues have led to an increased amount of falls or injuries, it’s time to consider an assisted living community, especially if they live alone.
According to The National Council On Aging, one out of four older adults falls each year, and falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries among older adults.
Keeping your loved one safe and preventing unnecessary injury is critical.
Assisted living communities are committed to keeping residents safe. Trained staff, grab bars, and 24-7 emergency systems are the norm in assisted living communities.
Inability to Care for Home or Property
If your parent’s once spotless home shows signs of neglect, it may be time to consider assisted living.
Maintaining a home and yard takes a lot of time and energy that many older adults don’t have. A loved one’s home that’s cluttered, dirty, or an unkempt yard should definitely be addressed.
A maintenance-free lifestyle is one of the most significant benefits of assisted living. In addition, these communities offer cleaning, basic housekeeping, and laundry services.
Family Members Are Overwhelmed
Family members often have a hard time caring for a loved one who’s unable to manage personal grooming, home maintenance, driving, or their finances.
Even the most well-meaning family members struggle to properly care for loved ones due to family and work commitments.
Taking care of a loved one is a significant commitment that takes time and emotional energy that can quickly overwhelm family members.
Assisted living communities can give family members peace of mind knowing their loved one is receiving high-level care from qualified professionals.
About Notre Dame Health Care
Are you interested in finding out more about Notre Dame Health Care’s senior living options? Schedule a tour (https://www.notredamehealthcare.org/new-to-ndhc/schedule-a-visit/) or call us at (508) 852-5800.