Signs It May be Time for Assisted Living

As your loved one ages, you may begin to see changes in their personality, behavior, or overall health. These changes could be subtle, and it’s important to recognize when someone may need additional help. We understand that this is a difficult time. If you are currently questioning whether your loved one needs additional help, we hope the following information can assist your process.

signs it could be time to consider an assisted living facility

Cleanliness

If you or your loved one begins neglecting their home or their hygiene, it may be time to think about assisted living. People who are normally clean or organized may begin to forget to complete daily hygienic tasks. Body odor, dirty clothes, a messy living space, or out-of-the-ordinary uncleanliness could be a sign that additional help is needed.

Injury or Potential for Injury

Have you noticed unexplained injuries on your loved one? Maybe more bruises than normal? Increased difficulty balancing or walking could cause someone to injure themselves more frequently than normal. The potential for injury or falling could also be a reason to consider assisted living. Your loved one would remain independent while still having the option for care and support right when they need it.

Noticeable Weight Loss or Gain

If preparing meals alone becomes too difficult, your loved one may begin to rely on foods that are more easily accessible. They may not tell you that they’re having trouble, but fluctuating weight could be a sign for concern. A proper, healthy diet is important, and significant weight loss or gain could be a sign that your loved one lacks proper nutrition.

Frequent Reminders

Do you find yourself reminding your loved one of appointments or tasks multiple times? Do they need to be reminded to take daily medication? Frequent reminders of daily tasks could be a sign that they are having difficulty taking care of themselves.

Loss of Interest

A loss of interest in social interactions or normal hobbies could indicate an underlying problem. Fear of falling, lack of proper medication, an inability to drive, and many other reasons could cause someone to isolate themselves or no longer participate in activities they once enjoyed.

Home Care is No Longer an Option

Many times, family members or children of loved ones take it upon themselves to act as a caregiver. When this isn’t an option or care needs have become too overwhelming, the best decision could be to transition your parent into a home with around-the-clock care. It is important to know that this does not mean you have given up as a caregiver, but that you recognize your loved one’s needs require a more comprehensive level of care.

This is not a complete list of signs, and it is ultimately up to you and your loved one on when the timing is right. When you do decide to explore assisted living options, we’ll be here for you. Sunset Senior Living recently opened the doors to a brand new assisted living facility. This facility completes our continuum of care services, meaning we’ll be able to care for your loved one through all levels of care. You won’t have to worry about transferring them to another facility as their needs change.

Sunset Assisted Living currently has eighteen apartments. Many are occupied, but we would love to talk with you about your options. Each apartment is handicapped accessible, ADA compliant, and furnished with a kitchenette. A private bathroom and walk-in shower is also included, along with a 24-7 emergency call system. Our goal is to help you or your loved one live as independently as possible, so we offer services and care to make that happen. For a full list of assisted living services, please visit our Assisted Living page.

Change can be scary, but we’re here with you every step of the way. If you are interested in one of our studio or one-bedroom assisted living apartments, please contact us, apply online, or give us a call at 217-223-2636.