Many seniors want to enjoy independence and live in their familiar homes for as long as possible. Although aging in place is a common goal for many retirees, it is not always practical and feasible. Therefore, families must balance care, safety, and independence if they want their seniors to enjoy a comfortable life during their golden years.
Assisted living communities offer a well-equipped space for seniors to live comfortably and safely. But how can families know it is time to move their aging parents into an assisted living community? This article will share a few signs that hint it is time to move a loved one into a senior living community.
Isolation and Loneliness
Some seniors have many adult children who work far away and only visit home once every few months. If a senior spends long periods isolated with no one to interact with, moving into a senior living facility is a better option. Some seniors are windowed, while others have mobility challenges or are unable to drive, making them feel lonely and isolated.
Assisted living communities have many channels of socializing, from hobbies, clubs, outings, holiday events, and shared meals. So, seniors looking for assisted living services also enjoy social interaction with peers in shared rooms and private suites in the facility. So, if a loved one is lonely, it is time to consider assisted living to keep the senior socially active.
Home Care and Maintenance Is Overwhelming
Home maintenance and care are pretty demanding. If all family members are busy with studies, employment, or business, it is best to move the aging parents into a senior community.
The elderly will not have to worry about exterior repairs, yard maintenance, cleaning, plumbing issues, and paying bills. Instead, they enjoy comfortable housing without maintenance tasks and only pay a monthly bill for all their housing needs. Family members also avoid round-the-clock care and focus on their responsibilities.
Unsafe or Inaccessible Environment
Mobility challenges are common in old age, and some seniors are unable to access some parts of their homes. Many older adults feel unsafe because they cannot rush to the exit during an emergency. Although modifying the staircases, bathrooms, doors, and house layout can increase access, the house might still pose significant challenges because it was not designed for older people.
The best solution is to move into a senior living facility, which has houses designed with the seniors in mind. The facility has safety features and technologies to prevent accidents and keep seniors safe. They also have trained staff and caregivers who can respond to emergencies and save the lives of the seniors.
Struggles With Daily Tasks
Seniors living alone have to cook, clean, shower, take medication, wash dishes, and maintain their homes. Due to muscle weaknesses, reduced energy, chronic diseases, and memory loss, some seniors are unable to handle these tasks. If their house looks dirty and unkempt, this could be a sign it is time to move them into a senior home.
Other common signs include missing medication, food going bad, dirty dishes in the sink, and a disorganized home. Some seniors go for days without changing clothing or bathing, which are also red flags. Assisted living homes have trained staff to support seniors with daily tasks, which means the residents enjoy their freedom without worrying about daily tasks.
It is never easy to decide when to move a loved one into an assisted living community. However, these signs can guide families with aging parents to switch to assisted living at the right time. Senior living homes are designed to meet the needs and expectations of seniors and their families. So, parents will likely enjoy exceptional care in a safe community.
