Making the decision to move a loved one into assisted living can be difficult. There are some clear signs that you can look for to help you make the decision easier. Taking the time to evaluate your loved one's health and environment can help you make the right decision. Here are five signs your loved one is ready for assisted living.
1. Unsafe Environments
Aging brings many changes, including a greater risk of falling and breaking a bone. Any home that is too cluttered, that has dim lighting or tripping hazards, or that is in poor repair in general may be a reason to opt for assisted living. This is particularly true if your loved one has osteoporosis, which is a condition where bones aren't as strong as they should be, or when there has already been an accident that caused a broken bone or other injury.
2. Unable to Provide Assistance
Making the move to assisted living may be necessary when you know that your loved one needs help, but you simply don't have the resources to provide the assistance that they need each day. Life can be overwhelming when you have a career, children and other responsibilities. Making the switch to assisted living ensures your loved one gets the care they need.
3. Limited Mobility
Limited mobility caused by aging is one important thing to consider when deciding to use assisted living facilities. Seniors with conditions that limit movement may not be able to complete chores and self care routines that were once part of a normal day. Limited mobility requires making home improvements that may not be feasible.
4. Illness or Disease
Serious illnesses, such as heart disease, diabetes or stroke, may require care that can't be provided at home. Seniors often experience a range of physical changes that make it difficult to live alone. For example, if changes in hearing or eyesight have occurred, you may want to consider assisted living housing. Changes in physical health may require transitioning to assisted living to ensure your loved one is safe.
5. Alzheimer's Disease
Alzheimer's Disease and dementia are diseases that cause extreme loss of memory. If you suspect a loved one is in the early stages of Alzheimer's, now is the time to discuss assisted living and other options. A person with Alzheimer's usually can't live alone for extended periods of time, and more often they require around the clock care to remain safe. Assisted living provides your loved one with the care needed to make sure personal care routines, such as grooming and meal preparation, are completed each day.
This article was written by Dixie Somers. Dixie is a freelance writer and blogger who gets much of her inspiration from her three young girls and wonderful husband.
William says
The decision to relocate your loved one to assisted living can be a difficult one. Aging bring many changes as seniors age, their circles get smaller. It may be too tiring to take care them at home because they need care and because of too busy life they are helpless to care them.