Caring for our elders can be one of the most challenging tasks we face in our lives. A time may come when your loved one may not be able to live on their own any longer, and you are presented with the difficult decision of choosing what living situation is best for them. Assisted living is a great option, offering a caring environment that can provide seniors with a comfortable home along with a variety of fun activities and social opportunities to help them live an independent life. Neither of you needs to worry, as caregivers are always nearby if needed. Consider the following aging signs when deciding if your loved one is ready to join an assisted living community:
1. Worsening Health
Declining health is often a part of aging. If your loved one currently has or develops a chronic condition that needs serious management, there may be a need for extra care. The potential for emergency medical situations also increases as we age, with falls becoming increasingly common and deadly among the elderly. If your senior is prone to falling, it might not be safe for them to live alone.
2. Financial Problems
Many seniors tend to lose their ability to pay their bills and keep up with other monetary responsibilities as they get older. Diseases such as dementia and Alzheimer’s also play a role, as these challenges can make it difficult for seniors to think clearly and remember important financial information.
3. Loneliness
Senior isolation is becoming a more serious societal issue that often leads to depression, addiction, and a shorter lifespan. If your senior is not participating in their usual hobbies or interacting socially, it might be a good time to make the move to assisted living.
4. Disorderly Home
You can tell a lot about someone’s wellbeing by their living space. Take a look at your loved one’s home and see if it’s particularly messy (i.e., dishes are piled up, there is a lot of spoiled food in the fridge, the floor doesn’t look like it’s been vacuumed in a while, etc.). These all may be indicators that your senior is either unable to perform these tasks all together or just needs some extra help.
5. Poor Hygiene
Does your loved one have an odor? Do they look like they haven’t brushed their hair or are they wearing dirty clothes? These may be signs your senior has lost their ability to take care of themselves and needs assistance with their daily routine.
