What is Assisted Living

Assisted living is a residential option for older adults who require assistance with daily activities such as cooking meals, going to the bathroom in the middle of the night, keeping house, and traveling to appointments.

> Is it time for an assisted living facility?

> Reasons for assisted living facility

> Signs that an elderly person may require assisted living

If you require more personal care services than you can get at home or in an independent living or retirement community, but you don’t require the round-the-clock medical care and supervision of a nursing home, an assisted living facility may be a good option.

Is it time for an assisted living facility?

There comes a point in life when you have to make that big decision of whether your aging loved one needs the support of an assisted living facility.

It can be a tough decision but you need to weigh all the factors carefully. You have probably looked after your loved one to the best of your ability but there may be various reasons that you are no longer able to give them the support that they need.

Reasons for assisted living facility

Safety concerns

This becomes a big cause for concern if your senior is living alone all the time or part of the time. This could be due to the fact that you live abroad or in another city. It could be because you have a job that keeps you occupied for long hours and this may mean leaving your elderly alone for long periods. Moving them to a place where they will be well looked after all the time is safe for them and will ease your fears.

Worsening health problems

However well you look after your elderly, there may come a time when they need more attention than you are able to provide. Age weakens the immune system and the aged fall sick more often and need constant medical attention. Certain medical conditions need full time medical management. If it is difficult to provide this kind of care at home, an assisted living facility may be the wisest decision.

Hard to cope with medical conditions

Some chronic or terminal illnesses like Parkinson’s may need more care than what a family member can provide. In time, your elder may find it difficult to do even small self help activities. Many people get full time caregivers who have nursing experience to manage their elder’s care at home. If that isn’t possible, making them comfortable in a space where their everyday needs are met may be the best decision for them.

Personal problems

There may be certain personal reasons for not being able to provide the care that your elder needs. You may be getting on in years and may be unable to look after your aging parents. Other responsibilities that take up your time may hinder you from providing the increasing care that they need. Placing them in a care facility may actually allow them to get the help and care that they need.

Signs that an elderly person may require assisted living

1. our refrigerator is either empty or overflowing with spoiled food, or your loved one is losing weight. These could be indicators that they aren’t eating well because grocery shopping or cooking is difficult.
2. You notice frequent bruises, even if your loved one tries to hide them. This could indicate a fall or mobility and balance issues.
3. Your loved one repeatedly wears the same clothes or neglects their personal hygiene. This could imply that doing laundry and bathing is physically demanding.
4. The house and yard aren’t as clean and tidy as they once were.
5. Your loved one forgets things like doctor’s appointments and when to take medication. This could be because of memory loss.
6. Your loved one appears to be depressed. Depression is common in isolated and lonely seniors.
7. You observe unusual or inappropriate behavior. Your loved one, for example, may dress inappropriately for the weather. This could be an indication that they are confused.
It is important to remember that you are making the wise decision for your elder when considering an assisted care facility. Many people feel guilty when placing their loved one in a care facility. But, remember that you will be taking care of them if you could. You are moving them to an assisted care facility because it is the best solution for them.