Seniors have to deal with a lot of chronic conditions as they age. According to the National Council of Aging, over half have hypertension or high cholesterol. Over ten percent are dealing with either dementia, depression, or heart failure.
These are all a lot to put on the shoulders of a sole caregiver. As much as they might care for their loved ones, there comes a time when they both need help.
But when is it time for assisted living for seniors and their families?
What Is Assisted Living?
An assisted living community provides housing and care for senior residents. Seniors who move into these communities often struggle with everyday tasks and require care that they cannot provide for themselves.
The goal of assisted living is to provide the help an individual needs without taking away their independence. Each senior should feel like the assistance enables them to live their lives and engage in social activities.
When Is It Time for Assisted Living?
Proper elder care planning means knowing what your loved one can and can’t do. Recognizing care needs can be difficult, especially if they’re not the type of person to ask for help. They may not wish to bother family with what they consider little things.
These are some of the senior care indicators that they should consider moving into an assisted living community.
Difficulty With Daily Living Activities
One of the most significant signs that a senior may need assisted living is difficulty performing daily living activities.
Some examples of Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) include:
- Bathing and grooming
- Dressing right for the weather
- Using the restroom unaided
- Cooking meals and remembering to eat
- Transferring between a mobility device and a seat
- Continence
A loved one who struggles with these tasks will require a carer to live happily and healthily.
Increased Safety Concerns
Aging increases the risk of falls, which can lead to serious injuries. If a senior has had multiple falls or unexplained bruises, consider it a big red flag. It’s especially dangerous if they’re hiding injuries out of shame.
See if your loved one leaves appliances on or forgets about them. Do they forget to lock doors and windows?
There are ways to keep seniors safe at home. However, an assisted living community provides 24/7 staff and emergency response systems. Your family won’t have to worry about seniors accidentally harming themselves or getting lost.
Declining Physical Health
Chronic health conditions and mobility issues can make independent living difficult. If a senior has difficulty managing medical conditions, then it’s time to get them help. Assisted living can provide access to professional caregivers and coordinate with their healthcare providers.
Cognitive Decline and Memory Issues
Memory loss, confusion, or other cognitive impairments can compromise a senior’s ability to live alone. It’s dangerous if they forget to take medication or get lost in familiar spaces. They may struggle to remember important dates or family members.
Poor Home Maintenance and Hygiene
You know your loved ones best, so you should notice if their home maintenance has declined over the years. If this neglect has gotten to the point that it endangers their health, then it’s time for them to get professional help.
Social Isolation and Loneliness
It’s not uncommon for seniors to find difficulty socializing. Some have lost friends over the years. There are others with mobility issues that limit their ability to get out of the house.
An assisted living community provides ample opportunity to meet new people and enjoy fun activities.
Caregiver Stress and Burnout
Assisted living doesn’t only benefit seniors. It’s a great option for caregivers who are feeling overwhelmed or exhausted by the senior’s needs.
Caregiving is a physically and emotionally demanding job. There’s no shame in relying on others to give your loved one the care they need.
Transitioning to Assisted Living
Assisted living readiness means making sure your senior loved one is prepared to move into assisted living. You can’t force someone to give up their home, even if they’re unhappy. However, you can make the process easier for them.
Open Conversations
Discussing assisted living with a loved one can be difficult. However, it’s important to approach the conversation with empathy. Too many seniors feel afraid of getting put in a home when they reach a certain age.
Listen to their concerns, highlight the benefits, and involve them in the decision-making process. Use “I feel” phrases to take ownership of your feelings, rather than blaming the other person.
Give them time to process the decision. Whether or not they move into an assisted living community is up to them.
Research Options Together
Not all assisted living communities are the same. Research communities in your area and compare services.
Some communities specialize in progressive care, which focuses on providing help as seniors become less independent. Memory care is especially important for seniors in the early stages of Alzheimer’s.
Take the time to visit the community in person to get a good feel for the staff and the other residents. Look for a location with access to the sights and sounds your loved one would enjoy.
Make the Move Easier
Once the decision is made, do everything you can to make the move smooth.
Help your loved one downsize and organize their belongings. Utilize a storage unit if necessary.
Personalize their new space with familiar items. Focus on things like photos, religious items, and comfortable clothing.
Encourage participation in community activities to foster new connections. There’s no point in moving into a new community if they won’t take advantage of everything it offers.
Finding Your Next Home
When is it time for assisted living to come into play? Seniors who cannot safely live by themselves will benefit from moving into a new community. If you’re a caregiver, you should consider it if you feel overwhelmed or like you can’t provide the level of care required.
Those in need of assisted living should look no further than Rittenhouse Village At Northside. Our residents have access to resort-style amenities, specialized programs, and more. Reach out to hear more or to schedule a tour.
