We’ve talked before about the trend today for seniors to age in place. But sometimes needs change and the time comes to begin to look at retirement homes or assisted living or personal care facilities.
A conversation with your loved one’s doctor may be the catalyst that brings about the decision to begin searching, but there may also be other signs that visiting some local retirement homes may be a good next step for your family.
If your loved one has been diagnosed with a dementia-related illness, your family should be looking for signs that he or she may not be safe or happy living at home. Some of these signs may be:
- The person who is caring for your loved one on a daily basis is beginning to show signs of stress or burnout
- Your loved one is becoming increasingly frustrated or agitated with his caregiver
- You are becoming concerned that simple decisions are being neglected and could possibly cause a dangerous situation (did she turn off the stove?)
But a dementia diagnosis is not the only reason that families choose to begin looking at retirement homes. If a loved one has become frail or ill, a personal care or assisted living facility may be a wonderful next step to improving the life of your loved one. Retirement homes that provide assistance with the activities of daily living offer opportunities for:
- Increased social interaction with peers—often seniors begin to withdraw from favorite activities as they feel less independent
- Better nutrition since meals are being prepared and transportation to the grocery store is provided
- Improved health through assistance with medication management, wellness programs and social and spiritual connections
Seniors who relocate to retirement homes tend to report an improved sense of well-being, and their families are generally relieved to find that their loved ones are feeling good and being cared for attentively. If you need help discussing a change in living arrangement with your parent or loved one, the senior care experts at most retirement homes can help guide you in your discussion.
Country Meadows
