When is it Time for Assisted Living?
As medical developments allow for a lot of people to live a longer, more healthy life, there usually still comes a point when living by themselves is not an option. It is gloomy for a senior to think about leaving the family home, so they might not want to discuss it.
When is Assisted Living Necessary
Families never enjoy answering the question “when is assisted living necessary?”. Nevertheless, there are some indications to look out for that are going to help make the decision obvious.
- Chronic Health Problems
Chronic health conditions are going to continue to worsen as someone gets older. Additionally, they can also weaken the immune system to be more possible to fall ill more frequently and stay unwell longer.
- Turning Aggressive
It is an unfortunate truth that some individuals with dementia are going to turn more aggressive as the disease advances. This is not a demonstration of the way they are being cared for, but simply a crushing effect of the disease.
Attempting to care for someone that is physically or verbally abusive is more than a lot of people can take on. Individuals that suffer from aggression require a safe place to live with qualified professionals that understand how to handle these situations.
- Recent Falls
Another indicator that assisted living is necessary is the repeated happening of falls. Mobility problems are common among the elderly, and there are so many areas within the home in which they can trip.
If your loved one has recently fallen and there is a worry they might be unable to get themselves up or call out for help, it might be time to examine the benefits of assisted living in which they can be looked after.
- Not Remembering to Take Medicine
Everybody forgets to take their medicine occasionally; nevertheless, if your loved one does this frequently, it is going to soon become a serious issue.
Their medicine routine is vital to keep their health conditions in check. There are systems in place that try to help them remember, but this is definitely an indication it’s time for memory care.
- Unable to Manage Day-to-Day Life Activities
Oftentimes even simple tasks can be overpowering. When a family member has a problem with housekeeping, cooking, or other day-to-day activities it might be time for a change.
Yard work is a huge job that usually is the first thing they are unable to finish. Don’t let them bear the weight of too much day-to-day work. Find a place where they can sit and relax and enjoy their final years with those duties done for them.
- Isolation and Sadness
If your family member is displaying symptoms of depression and feeling lonely, it may be time to start discussing if it is time to move to assisted living. The facilities provide a wide range of activities and chances for social interaction.
- Poor Eating Habits
If someone cannot cook, their eating habits are going to likely decline also.
Good nutrition is vital in retaining good mental and physical health. Moving to a long-term care facility is going to provide them with consistent and nutritious meals prepared with their particular needs in mind.
- Poor Hygiene
For someone that feels bad, or has the beginning of dementia, one of the initial things to go is personal hygiene. They don’t wash themselves as frequently, and when they do it might not be as good as it needs to be.
- Caregiver Stress
Perhaps you’re doing all the work, and you simply can’t do it anymore. A lot of people that choose to care for their family members on their own do so with great love and intentions.
Regrettably, a lot are not truly prepared for the demanding challenges both emotionally and physically. There is nothing shameful in admitting that you have done all you could, but now it is merely time for a different course.
- Sundowning
Sundowner’s syndrome is an ailment in which an individual that has dementia becomes more flustered at the days end. They’ve exhausted all their mental energy for the day.
- Wandering Off
If your loved one lives by themselves and you worry about their mental perception, you are most likely afraid of them losing their way.
That is a legitimate fear, and it happens more often than not. Perhaps they believe they know where they are going but get lost. Or maybe, they just want to get out of their house.
However, should this become an issue, or you are concerned it could be, don’t wait for something disturbing to happen. Begin the discussion today.
Chaparral Winds Offers The Finest Retirement Living In Surprise, Arizona
Chaparral Winds is a retirement facility in Surprise, Arizona offering assisted living, independent living, and memory care services. For more information about our senior living facility, SLS Communities or to schedule a tour, please call us today at 623-343-4125.