Realizing that a loved one may need the extra care a senior living community provides can be a hard pill to swallow, especially if you’ve done everything you can to help them yourself.
But how do you know for sure if senior living is the right decision?
Moving a loved one (even bringing up the possibility) of senior living is stressful and emotionally draining. How do you ensure there are no other options and the senior living community chosen is in their best interest? Here are some signs a loved one could benefit from moving to a senior living community.
Difficulty With Routine Tasks
Older adults may have increased difficulty taking care of routine tasks due to mobility issues, illnesses, and lack of energy.
Piles of laundry, dirty dishes, clutter, and unpaid bills are all signs that a loved one is struggling. In addition, some seniors may have difficulty shopping for groceries and preparing meals, which can lead to poor health and weight loss.
Senior living communities take care of the following routine tasks, giving seniors the ability to enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle:
- Weekly housekeeping services
- Personal laundry services
- Chef-prepared meals
- Transportation to shopping and appointments
Deteriorating Health
A chronic health condition getting worse or harder to manage is a significant indicator that it may be time to move to a senior living community.
Senior living communities have care professionals on staff including caregivers, nurses, memory care specialists, and physical and occupational therapists. These professionals are trained to ensure that residents receive the high-quality care they need.
Poor Hygiene
An inability to manage daily hygiene can be mentally and physically draining for seniors and their families. Unwashed hair, body odor, difficulty using the bathroom, and poor hygiene should be addressed immediately.
Senior living communities have compassionate, professional staff to assist residents with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, toileting, and grooming.
Signs of Isolation and Loneliness
If a once socially active loved one is alone much of the time and showing signs of sadness or depression, this is a critical sign that it may be time to consider a senior living community.
Chronic health conditions, difficulty driving, and mobility issues can make it difficult for older people to continue socializing. Unfortunately, many older people in the United States experience isolation and loneliness. In addition, isolation and loneliness can lead to a higher risk of heart disease, dementia, stroke, and suicide.
Senior living communities have on-staff activity directors to keep residents socially active with a variety of programs, including:
- Fitness classes
- Guest speakers
- Social opportunities
- Planned events
- Off-site excursions and trips
- Volunteer opportunities
Caregiver Burnout
Even the most diligent and well-meaning families can experience caregiver burnout. Being a caregiver is physically and emotionally draining, especially if you work and have a family.
If you’re finding it hard to give a loved one the care they need and deserve, a senior living community can help. It’s ok to admit you need help! Senior living communities are there to support residents and families.
Wrap-up and Next Steps
Admitting that it’s time for senior living can be challenging for older adults and their families. However, many seniors thrive once they find a senior living community that fits their needs.
Senior living communities like Allegro Senior Living are designed so residents can enjoy active, social, and comfortable lifestyles. If you have a question or want to know if senior living is the right decision, take this informative assessment from Allegro Senior Living. Contact us to learn more and to schedule a tour.
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