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When to Consider Assisted Living: 6 Key Signs to Watch For”

Caring for our loved ones can be a challenging task, especially if that loved one is aging and losing mobility. But when is it time for assisted living? Talking to your loved one about the potential benefits of assisted living can be a very challenging task, especially if aging in place is something they don’t want to compromise on. However, some of the benefits of assisted living—especially the prioritization of safety and easy access to care – can greatly benefit the aging adult in your life.

If you’ve begun asking yourself when you should start considering assisted living for your loved one, you’ve come to the right place. Learn more about six signs it may be time to start thinking about assisted living options.

1. Difficulty Maintaining Hygiene 

This is one of the primary signs that it may be time to consider assisted living services. Hygiene includes bathing, going to the bathroom, brushing teeth and hair, and general maintenance of appearance. If your loved one is struggling to keep up with any of these basic hygiene routines, they could benefit from some form of assistance. This assistance could come in a variety of forms, from in-home nursing care to 24-hour nursing services in a safety-centered living facility. 

2. Worsening Medical Conditions 

As we age, the medical challenges we face will most likely increase. From arthritis to Alzheimer’s disease, many seniors experience at least one chronic condition. If your loved one is having trouble managing their medical conditions, additional help is probably required. This, of course, will vary depending on the condition. For example, if your loved one has Alzheimer’s and is struggling to get through daily tasks, they need constant access to help for safety. 

3. Safety Concerns

Assisted living homes are designed with safety in mind. At Carespring, our facilities have an abundance of safety features such as railings and grab bars. The risk of dangerous falls and other health events (such as strokes and heart attacks) increases significantly as we age, and assisted living facilities have healthcare professionals right around the corner should an emergency happen.

4. Unsanitary Living Space

As mobility becomes more difficult, maintaining the quality of a living space becomes more difficult, as well. If your loved one has dishes piled up in the sink, a floor that hasn’t been vacuumed in months, and a fridge full of spoiled food, something needs to change. If possible, hiring a housekeeper to come in and clean once a week could solve the problem. However, if the unsanitary living space comes in addition to other, more severe worries, assisted living could immensely benefit your loved one. 

5. Memory Issues

Even if your loved one doesn’t have a condition that severely impacts their brain function (such as Alzheimer’s), their ability to remember important things may severely jeopardize their health and safety. For example, if your loved one continually forgets to take an important medication or misses appointments, their health could be at risk. Therefore, you might consider assisted living to make sure your loved one gets the care they require.

6. Overwhelming Care Needs 

Even one of the above issues can be enough for you to consider assisted living for your loved one, but a combination of any of them can be too much to take care of on your own. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the amount of care your loved one needs, we recommend you gently start bringing up your concerns. 

Assisted Living at Carespring

While we at Carespring are supportive of aging in place, we also prioritize the health and safety of all aging adults. If you believe your loved one could benefit from living in an assisted living community, we are happy to help guide you through that transition. 

Our assisted living facilities are comfortable, clean, and prioritize both mental and physical health for all residents. We consider each resident a part of our family, and therefore treat them with the utmost care and considerations for their individual needs.

If you’re interested in learning more, don’t hesitate to reach out and contact us. We are happy to answer any questions you may have, give you a tour of our location, and help your family through the transition.