It safe to say that one of the hardest decisions we will ever make during our lifetime will involve how we choose to care for our family members as they age. Often enough people are in denial that there’s a need for assisted living, both the future resident and their family members. If you’re noticing an increase in some of these signs, then it might be time to consider assisted living.
5 – change in normal behavior
If you’re noticing heightened confusion or agitated behavior in certain situations or at reoccurring times of the day, sundowning – for example, it might be the start of early memory loss symptoms. These behaviors can be confusing or hurtful to caregivers and family members to understand, and you may not be equipped to handle the “new norm” for your senior.
4 – balance
Has your loved-one gotten up in the middle of the night to use the restroom only to lose their balance and take a fall? As our bodies age, loss of balance is common. As a culture, we generally are a proud people who don’t like to admit if we’re hurt during a fall, but the truth is, those bruises add up. What starts as a stumble into the doorway today could lead to a more serious trip up the stairs tomorrow.
3 – memory
As we age we forget little things like names and dates – that’s normal and we can live with that. But, if memory loss progresses to a point where the senior starts forgetting to take medications, or forgetting where they live if they’re out of the house, or if they forget to eat properly, then that requires more attention.
2 – depression
Humans are social animals. Perhaps your parent or grandparent has lost their spouse. Think about that for a moment – they spent an entire lifetime with someone by their side, and suddenly they’re gone. That paradigm shift can draw a person in on themselves and lead to feelings of isolation and depression. A change of pace to a community setting in an assisted living facility might be what they need, even if they’ve never considered it.
1 – caregiver fatigue
So often we forget to take into consideration the state of our caregivers. Have you been taking care of a loved-one in their home for years, but time is taking its toll on you? This can be one of the trickiest decisions, particularly if your senior is in good health and getting along alright in their home with your constant help, but if you can no longer take care of yourself and your loved-one, then it might be time to seek additional help.
Whatever the reason, we are here to help make the transition to assisted living as smooth as possible. Come visit us today and see what we’re all about!