In America, over 800,000 people are living in assisted living communities, according to the AHCA/NCAL. These communities help seniors live their best lives and work to protect them from risk factors such as falls and isolation.
Watching your loved ones struggle to care for themselves is never easy. Fortunately, there are solutions for older adults who have difficulty with daily tasks, and assisted living is a wonderful choice.
“When is it time for assisted living?” is a common question that people ask themselves about the loved ones in their lives. Although there is no right or wrong answer, there are clear-cut signs that an older adult would benefit from an assisted living community and the constant care that comes with residing in one of these beautiful locations.
Here are some signs your loved one needs elder care solutions.
Challenges With Maintaining Hygiene
If you notice your loved one’s clothes are dirty or have stains and spots on them, along with other items on this list, these may all be signs of assisted living becoming a necessity.
It’s not just dirty clothing to look out for, however. It’s also:
- Messy, unkempt hair
- Untidy appearance
- Body odor
- Dirty hands
- Dirty, unclipped nails
If you notice any of these signs, your loved one may be neglecting personal hygiene, and they may need to begin the assisted living transition. There could be several reasons they’re neglecting personal hygiene, from depression to mobility issues, so it’s best to speak with a doctor.
Their Home Is Messy
Another sign that an older adult should consider senior living options is a messy home, as this might mean they’re depressed or simply can’t care for their home anymore.
For starters, check their refrigerator — are they able to food shop? Is the food in the fridge old and expired, meaning they’re not cleaning it out? Check the pantry as well to see if items are expired.
Look at other rooms of the house. Are sheets being washed frequently? Check to see if they’re cleaning the bathroom or vacuuming as well.
It’s also important to pay attention to their home’s exterior. Is garbage being taken out to the road? Are walkways clear from clutter and debris?
When there are elder care solutions like assisted living available, it’s important to pay close attention to a messy home and other signs that moving to assisted living is becoming a necessity. If you think your loved one needs help with daily tasks, it’s time to consider alternative living options for them that feature housekeeping and maintenance services.
Bills are Unpaid
This one can present a larger issue, as unpaid bills may go into collections, or your loved one may one day have utilities shut off if they have outstanding bills.
While visiting, look for any unpaid bills. If there is a pile of them somewhere, you might want to consider discussing assisted living. You may find that this is a difficult conversation to have, but it’s important to understand if your loved one needs help.
Check to see if they’re paying:
- Credit card bills
- Utility bills
- Insurance premiums
Should you notice that any bills are being left unpaid, you should inquire as to why — and consider elder care solutions.
Isolation Is an Issue
Consider the following sobering statistics: According to BMC Public Health, of older adults aged 60+, roughly 50% risk social isolation. From there, another 1/3 of this population will experience loneliness to some extent as they age.
If your loved one is facing isolation and depression, then it’s time to consider senior assisted living. Look for signs that they’re out and about with friends and family, enjoying themselves. If not, and you notice they’re staying home alone all the time, you should ask them why — and discuss possible solutions.
Isolation and depression are not to be taken lightly. Look for some of these signs:
- Persistent sadness
- Irritability
- Loss of interest in things they once loved
- Decreased energy
- Fatigue
Should your loved one have mobility issues or face being homebound, you may want to consider assisted living if they’re isolated and depressed as a result.
When Older Adults Are at Risk of Falls
According to data from the CDC, for adults who are aged 65+, falls are the number one cause of injury. This means that every single year, 25% of older adults fall, or 14 million people.
Falls can pose a serious threat to anyone, but the elderly need to be especially diligent about avoiding them.
For example, a fall can lead to:
- Fractured hip bones
- Head trauma
- Death
As people age, they lose muscle mass, and bone density declines. Additionally, their flexibility wanes, along with their cognitive and sensory function. Combined, these physical and mental decreases can lead to a dangerous fall.
Your Elderly Loved One’s Health Is Declining
One of the most difficult signs is that your loved one’s health is declining, as this may mean they need around-the-clock care. In this instance, you may want to consider moving them to an assisted care community, where they can receive the constant care and attention they deserve.
Check to see if they’re taking all their prescribed medications for any conditions. Are they remembering to fill the prescription on time?
Look for other signs of declining health, such as a chronic cough that won’t go away or other persistent illnesses.
If your loved one has difficulty moving around the house to take care of themselves — or has no means of transportation to see a doctor — then it’s time to discuss assisted living. Additionally, discuss how this transition can help them live comfortably and well cared for.
When Is It Time for Assisted Living? Now You Know
When is it time for assisted living? Should you notice any of the signs listed in this article, you should consider speaking to a healthcare professional about transitioning your loved ones to an assisted living community, where they can receive the care and attention they require.
Discovery Village at Palm Beach Gardens has everything the special senior in your life needs to thrive and live comfortably. Our amenities include weekly housekeeping services, exercise programs, movie viewings, and so much more. Contact us today to speak with a member of our dedicated staff about all the ways we can help your loved one transition to assisted living in Palm Beach Gardens, FL.
