It’s that time of the year again when families and friends gather to celebrate the holidays. As you spend more time with your aging parents this season, you may notice unusual changes. While some changes are part of the normal aging process, others may be signs that your mom or dad need some extra support. This holiday season, look for the following signs that may
indicate your aging loved one could benefit from assisted living.
- Difficulty performing activities of daily living
Have you noticed your aging loved one struggling with routine activities like dressing, bathing, eating or walking? If tasks that were once easy have become challenging, you may want to consider getting your parent extra support. - Behavior and mood shifts
You know your parent best, and changes in their mood could be a red flag that their health is declining. For instance, losing interest in hobbies, problems keeping track of time and showing a lack of motivation are all good indicators that they could benefit from assisted care. - Changes in physical appearance and self-care
Weight loss and poor hygiene are good clues that your loved one is having a difficult time caring for themselves. It’s important to keep an eye on their physical changes, and if they continue, consider getting them extra support. - Neglecting responsibilities
It’s normal to slow down as you age. However, if your aging parent routinely has unpaid bills, misses medical appointments or forgets to take their medications, it could be a sign of a bigger problem. - Decline in memory
Is your loved one having a hard time finding the right words when having a conversation? Have you noticed they repeat stories or are unusually confused? If their memory changes have started to impact their ability to live on their own, it is probably time to talk to them about the transition to assisted living.
Starting The Conversation About Assisted Living
It can be difficult to approach your aging parents about the subject of assisted living. Unfortunately, delaying the conversation only increases the likelihood of your parent needing a higher level of care in the future.
The goal of your conversation is to highlight the benefits of assisted care to increase their independence, not take it away. In fact, a quality assisted living community is designed to help seniors stay active, thrive independently and improve quality of life. Ultimately, you want your mom or dad to be safe, healthy and happy—and the right assisted living community can help.
Keep these tips in mind when starting the discussion about assisted living:
- Start the conversation early so that you and your parents have time to process and research this new transition.
- Keep your parents involved with the decision-making by letting them tour the communities with you. Listen to their preferences and requests when selecting a new place to call home.
- Research senior housing options in your area. Understand the level of care your parent will need and the costs associated with each prospective senior living community.
Assisted Living at Country Place Senior Living
Moving is a big adjustment, but assisted living can extend a senior’s independence, improve their social life and provide assistance with activities of daily living. At Country Place, we take a person-centered approach to create a caring, home-like environment where residents thrive. Our goal is to help your aging loved one achieve and maintain the highest level of independence possible.
To help you determine the best course of action for your loved one, we’ve developed this short Assisted Living Assessment.
