- Talking about moving into assisted living can be difficult, but it’s an important conversation to have with aging family member
- Difficulty with personal care tasks, cooking and cleaning can be a sign it’s time to consider assisted living.
- Seniors with memory difficulties or minor health problems may also benefit from assisted living services.
Your aging parents may be fiercely independent, living on their own and managing their daily lives with ease. However, for many aging adults, alternative living arrangements become necessary when they’re becoming less self-reliant. Making the decision to move into an assisted living community should be a mutual one.
Moving is a big step, and an open, honest two-way conversation will make it easier for the whole family to feel good about the change. If you’re wondering whether it’s time for your parents to consider assisted living, look out for the following warning signs that they might be struggling to live independently at home.
RUNSTUDIO / Getty ImagesWhen Is It Time to Consider Assisted Living?
Some seniors are reluctant to ask for help and may try to live independently, even though they’re struggling to do so. The average life expectancy in Australia is 82.8 years. So, moving into an assisted living facility can help seniors enjoy a good quality of life for longer.1
Learning some common red flags and the kinds of issues that seniors might run into as they get older can help you notice when things are getting tough for your parents at home. Be prepared to talk to your parents about the concerns you have, and present assisted living as an option that will allow them to live independently and safely for a long time to come.
1. They’ve Had a Recent Accident
Falls are the leading cause of hospitalization in Australia, and they’re also one of the leading causes of death. Seniors are far more likely to be hospitalized or die following a fall than younger adults.2 If your parents have already experienced one or more falls or other accidents, they may benefit from living in an environment where help is always nearby.
Assisted living apartments are often equipped with pull cords or other emergency response systems, so seniors can benefit from privacy and independence when they want it, but in a safer environment with caregivers on campus 24 hours a day.
2. Their Overall Health Is Getting Worse
Age-related health conditions, such as arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, and COPD, can all make it difficult for a senior to take care of day-to-day tasks. If your loved one lives alone or their caregiver is struggling to take care of them, it may be time to make alternative care arrangements.
In-home care services are available, but many seniors who require care for a medical condition have other limitations that make it impossible to manage a household as effectively as they used to. Assisted living services provide a convenient living arrangement where all their needs are taken care of.
3. The Activities of Daily Living Are a Struggle
Seniors with reduced mobility may find it difficult to tend to personal care tasks, such as bathing, dressing, and feeding. Seniors who struggle to get around and perform those tasks may find assisted living improves their quality of life.
Instead of having to wait for a loved one or caregiver to visit, so they can get changed or cook food, they can have support when they need it, giving them more freedom to do things on their own schedule.
4. Personal Care Is Being Neglected
As people get older, they may lose their appetite or sense of thirst, or they may start forgetting to tend to personal hygiene tasks. Sudden weight loss (or gain) or a noticeable body odor could be a sign that your loved one is not looking after themselves properly.
Even if they aren’t ready to move into an assisted living facility, it’s worth having a conversation with them about any changes you notice and asking for advice from a doctor.
5. A Lack of Social Connections
Social isolation can be a serious issue for seniors, especially if they’re struggling with reduced mobility. Even people who generally enjoy solitary pursuits need some social interaction. Someone who struggles to get out and about independently may experience loneliness, isolation, anxiety, and depression.
If your loved one seems to have lost interest in socializing or pursuing activities they used to enjoy, it could be an early warning sign of deteriorating mental health. Assisted living facilities give seniors the opportunity to meet their peers and form social connections in a supportive community. Many facilities run activities, classes, and group outings, giving residents a chance to pursue their hobbies or find new ones.
6. They’re Having Difficulty Driving
It’s important for older adults to have their hearing and eyesight tested regularly and to pay close attention while driving. Aging gradually reduces our reaction times and can impair concentration and memory. Make sure your older loved ones are still fit to be on the roads.
If they’ve had an accident, or a near miss, consider whether it would be appropriate for them to hand back their keys and start using public transport. If the thought of the loss of mobility is too much for them, life in an assisted living campus where there are stores, salons and entertainment on-site could be a good compromise for them.
7. Cooking Has Become a Challenge
Next time you visit your loved ones, take a look in the pantry. If you see a lot of food that’s expired or a fridge that’s entirely empty, this could be a sign your parents aren’t looking after themselves. They may be skipping meals or just eating takeout regularly. Some seniors become forgetful and regularly burn food or forget to turn off the stove.
While this risk can be mitigated with in-home changes, such as switching to induction hobs, the forgetfulness could be a sign of more far-reaching problems. Seniors who are experiencing episodes of forgetfulness or confusion may find life in an assisted living facility is beneficial for them.
8. Housework is Being Neglected
Doing chores isn’t something anyone enjoys, but it’s still important. Seniors who have limited mobility and less energy than they used to may neglect housework. Living in a cluttered and dirty home can be dangerous. Piles of clutter and rubbish can attract vermin, dirty surfaces can be a breeding ground for bacteria and cluttered rooms can present a tripping hazard.
Older adults are at an increased risk of suffering from a fracture after a fall because we naturally lose bone density as we age. Hiring a cleaner could help your loved ones stay on top of their housework, but if there are other warning signs, a move to assisted living may make sense.3
9. Household Pets Aren’t Being Cared For
If your parents are struggling to take care of themselves, they’re most likely unable to take care of any pets they have. Don’t turn a blind eye to signs of animal neglect. Many assisted living facilities are pet-friendly and will provide residents with the support they need to take care of small pets, such as cats, dogs or birds. This means your parents won’t have to give up their beloved animals if they decide to take the step of joining an assisted living community.
10. Bills and Paperwork Aren’t Being Done
Financial paperwork can be confusing at the best of times, and older adults who have poor eyesight or are starting to experience cognitive decline may find the job even more intimidating. If your parents are ignoring their mail, missing payments, or missing due dates on bills, they may need extra support.
Another thing to be aware of is financial scams. Many scammers prey on the elderly. If your parents appear to be struggling with money, even though they should be able to live comfortably on their pension, someone may be taking advantage of them. Talk to your parents and make sure they’re comfortable and confident about handling their financial affairs.
Having the Conversation About Assisted Living
It can be difficult for seniors to accept that they’re not as fit or active as they used to be. Some seniors fear that moving into an assisted living facility would be giving up their freedom. It’s important to approach the conversation tactfully. Discuss your concerns with your parents and explain the benefits of moving into an assisted living facility.
Put the idea forward as maintenance-free living. They won’t have to cook or clean anymore, and they’ll have access to support whenever they need it. Like anything, it’s always a good idea to be aware of your options.
Make a list of local assisted living communities to show them and arrange visits to each one if they’re receptive to the idea of trying them. Some communities offer short-term tester stays, which could help your parents make a decision.