More often than not, adult children visiting their parents typically notice a few cognitive problems or behavioral issues but dismiss them as minor incidents. However, episodes of memory issues or abnormal movements are parts of a larger puzzle that most individuals are unable to see. Here are several indicators that it may be signs your senior needs assisted living.
Weight Loss
Weight loss might be caused by an undiagnosed underlying medical problem. This might be a previously identified medical illness that is suddenly deteriorating, or it could be a completely new ailment. If your parents have lost a significant amount of weight, they should get medical advice from a skilled physician. If it’s due to a medical illness, they will most certainly need treatment and may require long-term help.
Poor Hygiene
If a family member who used to pay substantial attention to their outlook suddenly stops doing so, it’s a clue that they require assistance. You should also be aware that the bathroom may suddenly become a frightening area for many elders. After all, it’s made up completely of slippery, hard surfaces, making it the ideal setup for a fall.
Yes, they may be used to taking a shower or a bath daily and didn’t have to worry about it. Unfortunately, this simple act now entails substantial dangers. The thought of a fractured hip, or even a lifelong loss of mobility should be enough to prevent any elderly from entering the bathtub.
Chronic Conditions
As people become older, their chances of developing a chronic health disease increase dramatically. According to the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), more than 70 million persons aged 50 and up have at least one chronic condition.
Aside from chronic illnesses, the risk of medical emergencies rises with age. It’s not appropriate for your family member to be living alone if he or she has slipped and battled to get up on several occasions. Annually, about one-third of older adults fall, and the fatality rate from falls has gradually increased over the last 10 years.
Caregiver Burnout
Lastly, you’re undoubtedly reaching a tipping point in your caregiving scenario if you’re suffering from migraines, lower back discomfort, raised blood pressure, sleep difficulties, weeping episodes, and fretting endlessly about trivial things. Caregivers often experience extreme stress as a result of feeling ashamed about their feelings of frustration toward caring for their aged parents.
Nonetheless, you should never believe that you are the only person experiencing these emotions, as all caregivers face emotional conflicts when caring for an elderly family member at some time. Furthermore, it’s normal to want some time alone, and you should seek assistance whenever necessary. Know that you have every right to provide your physical and mental health with the rest they need.
Relocating your parents into assisted living may be tough for all involved, but the most challenging aspect of the process is determining when the time is appropriate. Although obvious signals such as a fractured hip or a dramatic decline in health might help accelerate the judgment call phase, there is rarely a single unambiguous warning. Use the above signs as hints to indicate that a change in living conditions is required.
