When a parent reaches age 65, it can be difficult to know when they should move into a memory care community. There are many factors that go into deciding whether or not your parent needs memory care in Centreville, VA, such as their medical condition and abilities. The following is a list of top signs indicating that your parent may need to move into one:
Your Parent Is Forgetful
Did your parent forget to turn off the stove or leave their wallet at home? Or is it more significant, like forgetting their name, where they parked their car, or what day of the week it is?
Knowing whether memory loss is normal for aging adults can be difficult. But notice if you have to remind your parent multiple times about basic tasks and responsibilities, like taking medicine or paying bills on time. It may be time for them to be evaluated by a doctor.
Your Parent Has Difficulty Driving or Handling Other Responsibilities
If you notice that your parent is having difficulty driving or has been stopped for speeding or not wearing a seat belt, it may be time to talk about their driving privileges. The good news is that many memory care communities in Centreville, VA offer transportation services. If your parent needs help getting around, they can still get out of the house and enjoy the community.
Some other responsibilities may include: paying bills (including credit cards), managing finances, and understanding money management skills such as budgeting; paying rent/mortgage or other housing costs; managing medications such as feeding tubes, etc.
They Forget How to Do Normal Daily Tasks
As a parent, you probably have some idea of the day-to-day responsibilities you take care of without thinking about it. You know how your dishwasher works, what button turns on your washing machine, and when to replace the filters in your air conditioner. But if your parent has dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, they may be beginning to forget these things. They may forget how to cook or clean up after themselves; they may not know where their phone is or how many minutes they have left on their plan; they may leave dirty dishes in the sink for days rather than putting them into the dishwasher as they used to! Memory loss can also affect their ability to do routine tasks such as laundry and cleaning up after themselves—both important skills when living independently at home!
Your Parent Is Having Trouble Sleeping and Seems Emotionally Distant
When a person has trouble sleeping, it can be a sign of depression. Depression is common in aging family members and will likely worsen as their memory declines. Your parent may also be emotionally withdrawn or lack motivation if they’re depressed.
They might also wake up early because of confusion about what day it is, which makes them agitated when you try to help them go back to sleep.
Another possible reason for sleep problems is health conditions like arthritis or diabetes, which can cause pain that wakes your parent up at night.
Conclusion
The decision to move your parent into a memory care community can be difficult, but it is one that most people will face at some point in their lives.
It’s important to note that there are many reasons why someone might need to move into an assisted living community—a diagnosis of dementia isn’t the only one. If you have any concerns about your parent’s ability to live independently, speak with their doctor or another specialist who can determine what type of care they might need.
