Wondering if assisted living is the right choice for your loved ones? After all, while assisted living can be extremely beneficial, your loved ones may want to put it off for as long as possible because it is such a huge change in their life. It can, however, be beneficial to them and improve their quality of life. Here are 4 signs it is time for assisted living for your loved ones.
They Feel Lonely and Isolated
If your loved ones show signs of loneliness or isolation, it is time for assisted living. Isolation among mature adults is a big issue. According to research conducted by the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), more than 40% of mature adults feel lonely on a daily basis. In addition, they found that these feelings of isolation or loneliness can result in major health issues and unfortunately, even mortality. Fortunately, an assisted living community provides your loved ones with a community of warm-hearted people and various activities and events that encourage more social interactions.
Their Health Is Declining
Notice that your loved ones’ health is declining? If this is the case, it is time for assisted living. It is a fact that as your loved ones age, they are more likely to acquire a chronic medical problem. According to the AARP, more than 70 million adults (aged 50 and over) have at least one chronic medical condition, such as Alzheimer’s disease or heart disease. And at some point, the assistance that they require; be it medical, emotional, or physical help, can become beyond what you can provide. At the same time, an assisted living community has professionals and team members that can provide such assistance 24/7.
Messy Living Conditions
A messy living area might indicate that it is time to consider assisted living for your loved one. When your loved one is unable to clean floors, take out the trash, wash dishes, or perform other basic duties, it is a sign they may require further assistance with other everyday responsibilities. People who are unable to clean up after themselves and maintain their houses are likely to have difficulty preparing nutritious meals or simply remembering to eat. An assisted living community has team members that can help with such chores and can even assist them with their errands or requests.
They Have Poor Hygiene
Poor hygiene is one of the most telling signs that it is time to relocate to an assisted living community. Infrequent bathing and washing, untidy hair, filthy nails, and a foul stench are all indicators. Because 80 percent of falls occur in the bathroom, mature adults may be hesitant to bathe without assistance. Others may have memory loss as a result of inadequate hygiene. And this could be the case for your loved ones’ poor hygiene. However, your loved ones are also more susceptible to sickness due to their age. As a result, cleanliness is critical to their good health. Therefore, when your loved ones have poor hygiene, it is time to shift to an assisted living community where they can get assistance for better hygiene. For instance, there are safety features in the toilet to reduce the fear of falling in the shower. Team members can also help your loved ones in bathing if necessary.
