As your parents and other loved ones get older, their capabilities in handling daily self-care will change. If you start to notice a decline, feeling concern for your loved ones is perfectly natural. This is when assessing a senior for assisted living comes into play. Here are a few things that you should assess a senior to determine whether or not they would benefit from assistive care.
Are They Having Memory or Cognitive Problems?
Though some memory trouble may be common for older adults, there comes a time when these memory issues will affect their daily life and safety. Changes are often gradual and may require attentive observation to determine whether or not your loved one needs assistive care. Here are a few signs that can help you when it comes to assessing a senior for assisted living:
- Changes in sleeping patterns.
- Confusion about simple, known tasks.
- Missing plans and having no recollection of them.
- Lack of recognition when met with familiar people or places.
- Problems taking medication.
- Sudden personality changes or mood shifts.
Are They Having Physical Problems?
Physical problems can manifest in a variety of ways and the signs that something is amiss are not always obvious. Things like chronic pain or a loss of mobility can affect many aspects of your loved ones’ lives. Here are some of the signs that your loved one is having physical problems.
- Frequent falls.
- Difficulty getting up from the seated position.
- They cannot see or hear as well as they once did.
- Pain reported when walking.
- A lack of appetite or weight loss.
- A lack of personal hygiene.
- The home is dirty and unkempt.
- Chores like food shopping, laundry, and other tasks are not getting done.
What Should You Do Now?
If you notice that your parents aren’t able to conduct themselves as they once did and that this is causing harm to them, then it may be time to discuss assistance. Though this may be difficult for them to hear and though they may not be receptive, remaining concerned and loving is key. Living a full and rewarding life is essential for everyone and, sometimes, a little help can go a long way.
Kenwood is Here to Help
If you’re not sure how to help a loved one who may benefit from assistance, then contact Kenwood Care. We are here to help provide that assistance and show your loved one that assisted living homes are just that: homes. Contact us today for more information.