6 Signs It May Be Time to Consider Assisted Living

Have you noticed your aging parent or loved one struggling, but you're unsure if a senior living community could provide the support they need?

Or maybe you’re a senior having difficulty living alone but not ready to give up your independence.

Knowing when it’s time to move to a senior living community can be difficult for seniors and their loved ones.

In this article, we’ll discuss 6 signs it may be time to consider assisted living.

1. Signs of Isolation & Loneliness

According to the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine, nearly 25% of adults aged 65 and older are considered to be socially isolated.

Older adults may have a difficult time socializing with friends and families due to chronic illnesses, mobility issues, and difficulty driving.

If you notice a loved one spending a lot of time alone or missing family events, assisted living can help.

Assisted living communities plan and organize various social events where residents can meet and connect with other seniors.

2. Difficulty With Household Chores

Does your loved one’s once immaculate home regularly show signs of distress?

Dirty laundry, unwashed dishes, an overgrown yard, and increased clutter should be addressed.

Assisted living communities provide laundry, housekeeping, apartment maintenance, and repairs for residents.

3. Difficulty with Hygiene

Unwashed hair, body odor, and difficulty getting to the bathroom are telltale signs that a loved one needs help.

Assisted living communities have compassionate and professional staff that will help residents with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, and toileting.

4. Health Concerns

Difficulty managing a chronic illness, frequent falls, sudden weight loss, or mismanaging medications are vital indicators that your loved one may need additional help.

Doctors, registered nurses, and occupational and physical therapists are on-site at assisted living communities to help patients with their health care needs.

5. Caregiver Stress

Even the most dedicated and well-meaning family member can have difficulty caring for a loved one.

Caring for a senior can be physically, emotionally, and financially exhausting. It’s normal for caregivers to neglect their health to care for a loved one, which can be detrimental for caregivers and seniors.

Not only are caregivers responsible for the health and well-being of a loved one, but they often must also work, care for children, and maintain a household.

Assisted living communities can help remove some of the stress of caregiving and provide families with peace of mind, knowing their loved ones are well cared for.

6. Cognitive Decline

Cognitive issues, including memory loss and confusion, are significant indicators that a senior may need professional help.

Forgetting appointments, making unsafe decisions, getting lost in familiar places, and social withdrawal can indicate early signs of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.

Many assisted living communities have memory care professionals who are specifically trained to care for people with cognitive decline.