6 Simple Signs That It’s Time for Assisted Living

by Jeremy Thompson Web Marketer

We all want to live independently in our own homes and on our own terms. But this is not feasible past a certain age for many of us. The care provided by assisted living residences becomes a necessity for most people above 65, at least temporarily. This may be a result of a health issue or simply an inability to take care of themselves and ensure their safety on their own. Moving your elderly loved ones to an assisted living residence is a hard decision and should not be rushed.

This post reveals six signs that indicate it’s time you seek assisted living services.

Inability to execute daily tasks

Basic tasks like making meals, cleaning the house, shopping for groceries, doing laundry and so on are often taken for granted. But as a person grows old, even the simplest tasks can pose a challenge. Carrying things or moving around can become very tedious as you age. If the elderly person lives alone every minor chore can feel more challenging than ever.

Significant amount of weight loss

Sudden and rapid weight loss is a very obvious sign that an elderly person needs medical assistance and care. Weight loss can happen because of various health disorders. However, it can also result from eating less because the person is unable to cook or go outdoors to buy food. Loss of appetite too can be a reason behind the weight loss and a symptom of larger health problems. If the person is unable to maintain their food habits because of their health, it is high time to seek regular care.

Tendency to avoid socializing

Is your elderly loved one unwilling to attend social gatherings? Do they tend to neglect their weekend activities like going out for lunch, meeting their old friends and other group activities? Are they giving up on their hobbies and interests? These are usually signs of depression and fatigue from heart-related health troubles. These also indicate that they are becoming isolated not by choice but rather out of compulsion as their health doesn’t permit even minimal stress. A retirement home is a large community of people who can engage them once again in the regular life flow and there are trained professionals to take care of their health.

Unexpected aggression and unsafe behaviour

Elderly people suffering from dementia or Alzheimer’s have the tendency to get abruptly aggressive without any provocation. The caregiver will suffer and even feel resentful in this situation. Their behaviour can lead to stress for the caregiver as they tend to become more and more demanding. Retirement homes train professionals who are dedicated to handling such patients with care. When the condition is too much for you to handle, it is best to seek professional help.

Inputs from the elderly’s close circle

The most obvious sign that it is time to look for assisted living are comments from the elderly person’s close circle regarding their behaviours and problems. Take note of any abnormal behaviour. Also consult their primary doctor about whether they have any serious concerns about the person’s ability to live alone.

Inability of the caregiver to meet the demands

Sending your elderly loved one to a strange place because they are unable to live independently is a hard decision that many are unable to accept. Hence, many families take care of the elderly person on their own, but it can become stressful for the caregiver after a certain point. Your declining ability to take care of the elder will affect their health as well. Moreover, the strain experienced by the caregiver will lead to outbursts and other situations which can affect the entire family. When you are unable to balance your lifestyle and your care-giving activities, seeking help from the professionals is the best option you have.

Assisted living services are equipped with all-around facilities for giving the elders a healthy and fulfilling retired life. It is understandable when someone grows old and are no longer able to take care of themselves. Recognizing the critical signs ensure that you are able to give your elderly loved ones the right care at the right time. The above mentioned are some signs which are basic indicators that it is high time to seek the assisted living services from reputed retirement homes. River Road Retirement Residence understands the concern you will have about the wellbeing of your loved one, and we do our best to provide the best services.