Signs That it’s Time for Assisted Living

One of the hardest things about growing up and growing older is seeing your parents grow older, too. You’ve always looked to Mom and Dad for guidance and emotional support, but there comes a day when they need your support and guidance, even if they are hesitant to admit it. Just the thought of moving into assisted living can be fraught with emotion aside from the practical considerations.

So how can you tell if the time is right to have that conversation? Sometimes the answer is obvious – Mom falls and breaks her hip or Dad has a stroke. Most of the time, it’s not so obvious, so you have to keep your eye out for clues. These signs indicate Mom or Dad may be safer, healthier and happier in an assisted living community.

1. Physical or personal hygiene changes.
Mom has always been meticulous about her appearance but suddenly she looks a bit unkempt. Or she’s having trouble negotiating the stairs. Dad has lost (or gained) weight. Or he doesn’t seem to be taking his medications on schedule. Noticeable weight changes can be due to poor eating habits, lack of proper nutrition, a medical problem or depression. Difficulty with any activities of daily living (bathing, dressing, cooking, eating, mobility, etc.) are common indicators that Mom or Dad need help.

2. Poor recovery or a worsening health condition.
Many chronic conditions progress over time, so Mom may inevitably need the additional care that can be provided by an assisted living community. However, common illnesses can provide more subtle clues. Dad took longer to recover from a recent cold or the flu (maybe it progressed to pneumonia or bronchitis). Mom forgot about her doctor’s appointment again.

3. A recent accident or close call.
Accidents aren’t always catastrophic, but the results can be. Dropping a hot plate or pan, getting into a fender bender or taking a fall and not being able to get back up are just some of the signs that Mom would be safer in assisted living. In fact, falls are a particular red flag. They cause 95% of hip fractures, not to mention traumatic brain injuries and even death among seniors. Fear of falling can cause Mom or Dad to cut back on physical activity, thereby increasing risk of falling due to diminished strength and balance.

4. Household chores are piling up.
Mail is accumulating unopened on the counter because Mom or Dad feel stressed by reading, paying and filing bills. Laundry and housekeeping aren’t getting done. You’re noticing cobwebs, excessive dust, and mold in the bathroom. Outside, there’s a loose step and the yard is looking untended. Keeping up with the physical and financial demands of home maintenance can become too much for older adults, but in assisted living someone else handles the chores.

5. Mom has turned into a homebody.
Seniors who are experiencing mobility issues, feel anxious driving, or have other concerns can stop going out to shop or socialize. Self-isolation can harm physical and mental health, whereas an assisted living community is just that – focused on a sense of community and staying active.

6. You are burned out.
Physical and emotional exhaustion are common among caregivers. You love your parents, but you can do only so much, even with help from other family members, friends or professional home health aides. If you allow your own health or life to deteriorate, you won’t be able to help Mom and Dad. Assisted living gives both you and them the opportunity to spend quality time together.

Magnolia Manor is here to help.

You want your parents to thrive as they age, and a move into assisted living is often an ideal solution. At Magnolia Manor, seven of our nine campuses across southern Georgia offer assisted living that comes with a caring staff to handle all the details. We’re dedicated to providing Mom with a quality lifestyle that meets her physical, spiritual, social and mental needs. Call us at 855-540-LIFE (5433) and a member of our team will be happy to answer any questions or schedule a tour.