As your loved ones get older, you’ll have to help them make an important decision – where should they live? There are many retirement community options out there, assisted living being one of them. Assisted living suits those who require assistance with everyday tasks (like bathing and grooming) but do not require extensive regular medical care. Moving a loved one into assisted living can be tough, and determining the right time to make the transition is always challenging. Obvious indicators may not always show up; the signs are often vague yet significant. Here are some signs that it’s time for your loved one to make the move to assisted living.
Worsening Health
If deteriorating health is a pressing issue, it might be time to consider moving into an assisted living community. If your loved one is taking a long time to recover from sickness or injury, this might be a symptom of a weakened immune system – further treatment and care may be required soon. If you are worried, speak with their healthcare provider. An assisted living community that is equipped with the proper medical care might be the right decision to make.
Inability to Manage Home
If your loved one is unable to keep up with house chores and maintenance, an assisted living community could serve as a more hygienic and stress-free environment. Although they may like having a home of their own, the maintenance may be too much for them. The inability to care for animals might also indicate mobility or cognitive issues. Some assisted living communities allow residents to keep pets; if animals are a significant part of your loved one’s life, look for one that does.
Poor Hygiene and Diet
Have your loved ones been eating unhealthily, resulting in significant weight change? Do they have a body odor or an unkempt appearance? These are signs that they are no longer taking as much care of themselves. Rapid weight loss or gain can indicate medical issues or their inability to prepare food for themselves. A decline in hygiene can mean that they are having difficulties bathing, which makes them at risk of bacterial infection and mental decline. Problems with day-to-day tasks or self-care are signs that your loved ones should no longer live by themselves.
Isolation and Unhappiness
Even if they can care for themselves, your loved ones might be ready for a change. If they are no longer involved in social activities they previously enjoyed or spend most of their time at home, it is time to have an honest conversation with them. They may be afraid to drive or feel uncomfortable socializing and partaking in their favorite activities that used to bring them happiness. Giving them a safe space to share might help you get to the bottom of issues that might indicate a good time to make the move. A new living situation could also be uplifting and improve one’s mood.
Make The Transition to Assisted Living with TerraBella Spartanburg
Want to find out more about moving to assisted living at TerraBella Spartanburg? Contact us and our senior lifestyle counselors will be more than happy to answer any questions you may regarding our amenities, exclusive programs, and more.
