Deciding the right time for an aging adult to move into an assisted living community is difficult, as families often avoid the decision. This decision becomes more frustrating when your loved ones are unwilling to move.
In situations like this, what are the factors needed to consider making your loved ones fit for the transition? These are some signs that your parent needs assisted Living In Airlee Court, VA:
Chronic Health Conditions
According to the National Council on Aging, 80% of aging adults have a chronic disease, while 77% have more than one. This becomes more frustrating when you realize that most deaths in the United States are due to chronic diseases. Once your loved one has a chronic health condition, it’s time for them to move to an assisted living community.
Therefore, instead of trying to manage the health of your loved one at home and watch their health decline, it would be better if you move them to a retirement community with trained team members.
Social Isolation
Social isolation is associated with a high rate of mortality in aging adults. The older we become, the fewer social ties we have, affecting our mental health over time. In some situations, aging adults are isolated due to their health conditions. In other situations, your loved one can intentionally live in isolation despite knowing that it is damaging to their health.
Some signs of isolation include poor living conditions, withdrawal, poor nutrition, and loss of interest in social activities. Isolation can lead to cognitive decline, dementia, and chronic diseases. Other health complications associated with isolation are cancer, cardiovascular disease, and high blood pressure. Detect these symptoms earlier so you can move them to an assisted living facility.
Frequent Falls
Another red flag your parents need to move is frequent falls. It is common for aging adults to have problems with mobility, and there are a lot of spots in the house where they can fall.
If your loved one lives alone, they might not be able to call for help after they fall. Once you notice this, it is time to consider moving them to an assisted living community where they will be properly monitored.
Difficulty with Daily Tasks
The moment aging adults begin to struggle with simple tasks around the house, it is time for assisted living. There are tasks like cooking, housekeeping, dressing, and other activities. Once these activities become a struggle, this might be a sign that they require assisted living.
Poor Hygiene
Poor hygiene is another sign that your loved one needs to move to an assisted living community. Some signs of poor hygiene include bad odor, dirty nails, unkempt hair, and infrequent bathing. Aging adults might be afraid to bathe due to falls in the bathroom. Therefore, they need assistance to ensure they stay clean all the time.
