How To Know It's Time To Move To An Assisted Living Community

If you’re thinking about whether the time is right for you or a loved one to move to an assisted living community, we understand it can be a difficult decision for everyone involved. With so many different factors to take into account for your unique situation, there are also certain signs you can be watching for. Here are some indicators that it may be time to initiate this conversation.

• Worsening problems – Is your loved one’s deteriorating health becoming a struggle for you or for them? Rather than trying to handle your loved one’s chronic health problems yourself or risking further complications, it may be beneficial for them if you partner with a team of professionals who are dedicated to their well-being. 

• Subtle changes – Have you noticed any clues that could indicate reduced independence, such as unwashed hair, stained clothes or unkempt fingernails or facial hair? Hygiene is often one of the first things neglected by an older adult facing mobility issues and/or memory loss, as well as other parts of daily life that are hampered by mental and physical limitations.

• Safety issues – Do you feel your loved one would be confident in responding appropriately to an emergency like taking a fall, having a medical scare or getting in a fender bender? Before any serious incidents occur, a move to assisted living can bring help with daily monitoring and transportation for shopping and appointments, as well as providing fresh, healthy meals.

• Social isolation – When living alone, older adults often have fewer social ties and may be more isolated due to memory loss, hearing impairment or mobility issues. Social isolation is considered a risk factor for early mortality and has been associated with cognitive decline, depression, chronic diseases and dementia. According to AARP, signs of social isolation in seniors include withdrawal, loss of interest in personal hygiene, poor nutrition and/or hoarding.

Ways You Or A Loved One Can Benefit From Assisted Living

There are many parts of daily life that can become difficult for individuals to keep up with as they age. Assisted living at The Reserve at Fairhope ensures your loved one has help with bathing and grooming if needed, medication management, scheduled transportation to appointments and much more. Here are some of the benefits you’ll find at our community. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions you may have about assisted living at The Reserve – we’re here to help in any way we can as you consider the next step for you or your loved one.