If you’re considering whether it’s time for you or a loved one to move to an assisted living community, we know it can be a difficult decision for all involved. With so many contributing factors to take into account for your individual situation, there are certain signs you can be watching for. Here are some indicators that it may be time to initiate this conversation.
- Worsening health problems – Is your loved one’s declining health becoming a struggle for you or for them? This is the time to partner with a team of professionals who are dedicated to their well-being. Assisted living provides help with bathing, dressing, medication management and other activities of daily living, as well as nursing support.
- Changes in hygiene or signs of self-neglect – Have you noticed any clues that could indicate reduced independence, such as unwashed hair, stained clothes, or unkempt fingernails or facial hair? Poor hygiene could indicate your loved one is having difficulty due to mobility issues and/or memory loss. Self-neglect is a risk factor for early mortality among the elderly and could signify a need for greater support – watch for signs of weight loss or dehydration, poor medication management or important mail left unopened.
- Increased isolation – Do you feel your loved one is becoming more isolated due to memory loss, hearing impairment or mobility issues? Isolation is a risk factor for early mortality, as it is associated with cognitive decline, depression, chronic diseases and dementia. According to AARP, seniors exhibiting withdrawal, loss of interest in personal hygiene, poor nutrition or hoarding could be suffering from social isolation.
- Safety concerns – Would your loved one be capable of responding appropriately to an emergency like taking a fall, having a medical scare or getting in a fender bender? Evaluate your loved one’s mobility and balance as it relates to the safety and accessibility of their home – a social worker may be able to recommend options before a serious incident occurs.
How your loved one could benefit from assisted living.
If your loved one is showing any of the above signs, it may be time to consider moving to an assisted living community. Assisted Living at Highpoint ensures your loved one has fresh, healthy meals, help with bathing and grooming if needed, medication management, scheduled transportation to appointments and other parts of daily life that become difficult for seniors to keep up with on their own.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions you may have about assisted living at Highpoint – we’re here to help in any way we can as you consider the next step for you or your loved one.