As much as your aging loved one might want to stay in their own home, there comes a point when it may no longer be feasible. If this happens, it might be time to consider assisted living.
Common signs that it’s time to move your aging parent into assisted living include poor hygiene, dirty clothes, a messy house, and forgetting medications.
Decreased Mobility
Observe your aging parent to see if they are having difficulty moving around. A decline in mobility can be a sign that it’s time to consider assisted living like Westminster Point Pleasant. If they live in a two-story house, a struggle with the stairs can be a big red flag for falling or injuries.
Unexplained bruises are another common sign of a loss in mobility. These can be caused by medications that cause easy bruising or from bumping into furniture or walls.
A lack of mobility can lead to isolation and depression, as well as increased medical problems. It is essential to look into assisted living options to get them out of the house and into a community environment with other seniors. They’ll be able to socialize and find new interests while getting the help they need with their mobility.
Medical Issues
Some medical issues may make aging parents’ independence more challenging. For example, if your loved one is experiencing frequent falls or has difficulty getting up from their seat, it could indicate that they’re not safe at home without the support of round-the-clock care.
Slow recovery times from illnesses and injuries are another sign that it’s time to consider assisted living. It’s common for people to take longer than usual to recover from ailments and accidents as they age, but this isn’t something you should ignore. An unkempt living space, forgetting to take medication, or wearing dirty clothing are signs that your parent’s quality of life is decreasing and they need extra help. This is a significant decision to make, so it’s essential to consult your parent’s physician and family for advice before proceeding with assisted living.
Decreased Social Interaction
Caring for an aging parent can quickly become a full-time job, significantly as their needs increase. Overworked family caregivers can become resentful or angry, negatively impacting their relationship with their loved ones.
Maintaining connections with family and friends is also essential for an older adult’s mental health and quality of life. A study found that physically capable seniors without daily social interaction became frailer faster than those with regular contact.
Assisted living communities allow seniors to interact with each other and staff. Some offer frequent trips, arts and crafts, lectures, games, and more. They also include social activities in their monthly fee, so your loved one doesn’t have to worry about balancing accounts or scheduling appointments.
Slow Recovering from Illnesses
Many people choose to move into assisted living because they are no longer able to live independently or safely at home. They may struggle with cooking, preparing meals, cleaning the house, or raking leaves. Some have difficulty getting to the doctor or taking medications. Assisted living offers on-site healthcare using an aging healthy model that addresses physical and mental wellness.
They can also get delicious meals and access to recreational activities, such as exercise and socializing with friends, in a safe environment monitored for safety. Depending on their income, they might be able to pay for the cost of assisted living through Medicare, long-term care insurance, or veterans’ benefits. They can also cash in their life insurance policy or use other assets to pay for the cost.
Decreased Self-Support
If your parent has begun to miss doctor appointments, forget medication, or show signs of deteriorating mental and physical health, you may need to broach the topic of assisted living. Caring for aging parents can take its toll on family members who must also manage their careers and families. Over time, this can lead to burnout, which can harm everyone.
If your parent is still reluctant to accept assistance, try starting small. A few hours of weekly help or regular visits from family and friends can gently nudge them in the right direction. A supportive community can offer them a place to live comfortably and safely, knowing they’re surrounded by people who care about them. This can be a powerful motivator for many seniors.
