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As your parents age, you might start seeing obvious signs that they require assisted living. For example, after a bad fall, your mother might not be able to move around her house like she used to. Or, even more direct, your father’s doctor could insist that you organize his assisted care.
While these signs are blunt, others are easier to miss, especially knowing that most older adults experience very gradual physical and cognitive decline.
What are the signs your parents need assisted living?
Common BUT LESS NOTICEABLE signs that your parent could benefit from living in a facility include:
- needing reminders to take medication, eat, or drink
- noticeable weight loss or gain
- difficulty moving or an increase in falls
- neglect of household maintenance
- inability to perform daily tasks (grooming, preparing meals, etc.)
- increased time in isolation (perhaps following the death of their spouse)
- less interest in beloved hobbies
For dementia patients…
Your parent might require memory-focused living if they display any of the following signs.
- increased aggressive behaviors
- disorientation (becomes lost easily)
- repetition of stories and questions
- speech problems
- difficulty planning, concentrating, or organizing
Why an assisted living facility?
When you find out that your parent could use extra help, your first instinct might be to care for them yourself. However, juggling family, jobs, social life, etc. does not leave much time for the care and attention your parent requires. For many, parents are among the most beloved individuals in life. It can be difficult thinking about giving over the responsibility of their care to strangers. In this process, it may be comforting learning more about what assisted living facilities offer.
Assisted living provides long-term housing and care for seniors. As a resident of assisted living, your parent can expect “personalized care, nutritious meals, a wide range of social activities to cater to a variety of interests, and a sense of community in a safe, residential setting.” For all the above reasons, an assisted living facility may be a good option for you and your parent.
Life Insurance Questions?
We hope this information on signs your parent is ready for assisted living is helpful.
If you’d like to learn how we can help you plan your retirement, call Empower Brokerage to speak to one of our Life and Annuity experts (888) 539-1633
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