It’s never an easy decision, arriving at the realization that your loved one or parent should move to an assisted living community. This is particularly true if they used to do many things on their own, and love the freedom and independence that they have in their house. Possibly even for decades, they’ve lived in the same home. While living there, many fond memories were made. Holidays were celebrated, children were raised, grandchildren visited, and more.
As hard as this kind of move is on them, it can be equally hard on you to decide their future. You remember your parents or loved ones as strong, vibrant, always providing for others, and taking care of themselves. To admit that a loved one or parent needs assisted living brings a harsh reality into focus – your own mortality. You’re getting older, too.
But how do you know if it’s really time for assisted living? In the following, we are going to point out a few signs that show the need to consider a move to assisted living for your parents or loved one.
Exhibiting Strange Behavior
Everybody has little quirks and oddities. But, if you find your loved one becoming disoriented, confused, wearing weather inappropriate clothing, or acting in a manner that is strange for them, there could be a problem.
Having Injuries on a More Frequent Basis
Is your loved one falling more often? Do they have unexplained cuts, scratches, bruises, etc.? If falling or frequent injuries becomes an issue, it could be time to consider assisted living.
House Is Dirty or in Disrepair
Much as with the clothing they wear, a person may not be able to keep their home environment clean anymore. If repairs aren’t done or getting done, if the home is dirty, etc., they may no longer be able to handle the upkeep.
Forgetfulness Where Medication Is Concerned
Forgetfulness is something that happens to most of us as we age. But in some cases, it can be more severe and end up causing concern. It’s also a problem where taking medication is concerned. Missing one dose of medication is likely not going to be a huge problem, but forgetting to take a few rounds can lead to serious health consequences.
Neglecting Their Hygiene
Ignoring shaving, bathing, and other basic hygiene can point to the fact that an individual is simply finding it too difficult to care for themselves. It’s just too challenging to do laundry and change clothes.
Unexplained Weight Loss
If your loved one’s clothing starts looking baggy and they suddenly appear frail, several diseases, medications, depression, and more may be causing them to lose weight. The chance for depression and the risk of infection both increase if severe weight loss continues. Your loved one needs nutritious, delicious meals every day.
Depression
Though depression can happen at any age, it can occur as adults come to grips with advanced aging. They may not be able to remember things, can’t deal with aches and pains every day, can’t do things they used to do, their friends are all passing on, they may have lost a spouse… There are many reasons for depression.
Assisted Living at Discovery Village At The West End
We offer world-class senior living at Discovery Village At The West End. Our conveniently located campus in Richmond, Virginia, provides residents with unmatched service through a variety of senior living options.
Our state-of-the-art community features respite care, memory care, assisted living, and independent living. In a comfortable, beautiful setting, you will find resort style amenities. Activities, services, and care are all involved in our unique approach to retirement living. All in one space, everything residents need now or will need in the future is provided.
