As the child or loved one of an aging person, it’s common to experience a range of complex emotions as time moves forward. Watching someone you love slowly become less capable of performing the tasks they used to be able to do can be hard. You may be struggling with an uncertain future, as you try to determine what’s best for your loved one and what’s feasible for you. If you are currently supporting an aging loved one who may require additional assistance in the near future, here are some common signs that may indicate that an assisted living facility or senior living community may be the best option moving forward.
1. Meals and Eating Habits
Have you noticed that your loved one has had some trouble maintaining a balanced diet? As some people age, they may sometimes forget to eat, or their meals become less nutritious because they are unable to visit the grocery store as often as they used to.
2. Personal Grooming
One of the hardest aspects of watching your loved one age is realizing that they are not maintaining proper hygiene. If they often wear the same clothes that are unwashed or stained, or if it becomes too difficult for them to bathe and groom themselves, it is probably time to seek outside assistance.
3. Safety
As the memory declines, some seniors have trouble remembering to turn off kitchen appliances when they have finished using them. Sometimes, household appliances that were once familiar—such as an iron, can opener, or toaster—have started to pose a threat to their safety. If you’re concerned that your loved one may injure themselves inadvertently, it may be time to discuss alternatives to in-home living.
4. Social Behavior
If your senior lives by themselves, they gradually become more isolated and lonely. Even if you visit them often, there are plenty of hours in the day for them to feel disconnected. A senior living community offers multiple opportunities for aging individuals to connect with one another and engage in several hobbies, which could boost their confidence and sense of belonging.
It’s Okay to Ask For Help
If you have been a devoted caregiver and you’ve been intent on keeping your aging loved one in their home, it’s necessary to be honest with yourself when it all becomes too much. There is only so much support that you can provide, and it’s okay to help your loved one transition into a new environment where they will receive the services and socialization that they need.
At Legacy Law Group, we understand how difficult it can be to plan for the future of your aging loved one. If you want to learn more about your options for ensuring that they receive the support and care they need, call our Spokane Valley office today at (509) 315-8087 to speak to a dedicated long term care planning attorney.
