18 Signs It’s Time to Move an Aging Parent into an Assisted Living Community

Let’s face it. None of us want to be dependent on someone else. We all dream of retirement like it’ssome paradise just over the next horizon where all the hard work of life is finally realized and rewarded with carefree days filled with endless adventures. And for many of us, this is mostly true. Advances in health care and the rise of senior living communities has meant this dream is possible for more people now than ever before.

This article isn’t for those people. It’s for you, the husband or wife, the son or daughter, the brother or sister, the one who has a loved one who is having difficulty getting by on their own, even with your help. It’s for those who want the best for someone they care about deeply and are interested in what signs to look for that it’s time for assisted living.

Assisted Living Isn’t a Cop-Out

Before we get into the whys and the whens of moving to an assisted living community, let’s dispel one myth right away. As a caregiver, as a family member, as a friend, you want your loved one to live their best life. You must also realize that you, too, have a life you must live. Sure, you can give up ome things for a while, but putting your life on pause isn’t a long-term solution. And, unless you’re trained in senior care, you simply aren’t equipped to deal with all the medication management, activities of daily living, and other aspects of caring for an aging loved one.

We hope this article helps shift your thinking about assisted living communities and how good they can be. Not only for your loved one, but for you and your whole family. When you have professional help at your side, you can get back to your natural relationship. And isn’t that what you’d rather focus on anyway?

Signs It’s Time for Assisted Living

1. Your loved one can no longer keep up with household chores like laundry, dishes and cleaning.

2. When you visit, you feel their home just doesn’t seem like the safe haven for them it used to be.

3. They’re frequently bruised or injured because it’s difficult for them to get around the house.

4. They leave stovetop burners on, fridge doors open, faucets running, and food out on the counters.

5. They aren’t taking their medications as prescribed.

6. They’re not eating well or regularly.

7. They suffer from chronic or worsening health problems.

8. They’ve stopped bathing, grooming, and taking care of basic hygiene.

9. They’re behind on bills and have stopped responding to mail.

10. It’s no longer safe for them to drive. Perhaps they’re afraid to or have gotten into frequent accidents.

11. They get lost or disoriented easily if they leave their home.

12. They’ve become antisocial and withdrawn.

13. They no longer engage in activities they used to enjoy.

14. They never seem happy.

15. Their mood changes frequently and they can sometimes be aggressive.

16. Their pets seem neglected.

17. Friends or neighbors have expressed concerns for their well-being.

18. Their current caregiver can’t keep up.

You and Your Loved One Aren’t Alone

Admitting that someone you love needs more care than you can provide is one of the most difficult things we face in this life. If these signs it’s time for assisted living have you shaking your head or recalling close calls, the answer is clear: You need help. The first step is to talk to your loved one. They might be feeling the same way you are. Perhaps they’re trying to soldier on because that’s all they know. But be prepared for some pushback. It can be disheartening to learn that the people they love and trust the most feel they can no longer live on their own.

Once you’re on the same page, do your research. Talk to some assisted living communities. Take tours. Ask questions of their associates and residents. When done with love, a move to assisted living can help your loved one regain some freedom and control of their life. We’d love to help. Whether it’s just to talk about your options or to learn more about The Élite Collection senior living communities. Please reach out. We’re here for you and your family.