Is It Time for Assisted Living?

Is it time to look for assisted living options for your senior loved one?  There are signs that can help you make your decision.

Personal Hygiene Issues

When you visit your senior loved one you may begin to notice that personal hygiene is changing.  Body odor and unclean hair can indicate that bathing isn’t happening as often as it used to, whether it is due to memory issues or fear of falling.   You may see food stains on clothing, indicating that your loved one isn’t doing laundry as often.  Anything that is out of the ordinary in the way of personal hygiene can be a red flag and should be monitored.  While these issues may not be life threatening, they can be windows into the daily life of your senior.

Changes in Nutrition

When you give your loved one a hug during your visit, does he/she appear to be shrinking…are you noticing weight loss?  If so, take a look in the cabinets in the kitchen and refrigerator. Are you seeing expired product?  There are many factors that can cause seniors to lose weight including medications, forgetfulness and simple loss of appetite. Or, they may not be able physically to shop for and prepare their meals, so they are eating less frequently

Safety Concerns

Certainly,  the most critical signs that you need to consider when evaluating your loved one for assisted living are those that involve safety.  Fire hazards such as pots being left on the stove too long or an iron that hasn’t been unplugged are clearly dangers that need to be addressed.  Steps, area rugs and door jams can make getting around the home impossible for seniors.

As you build awareness of what daily life is like at home for your senior, you will know when the time is right to begin the search for the assisted living facility that meets your needs.