We would all love to be independent and live on our own for all of our days. That’s not possible for most people, so it’s good to know there are many senior care options available.
When it’s time for an older adult to move to a senior living community, it can be a hard pill to swallow. However, there may come a time when living alone is no longer a safe option.
If you’re questioning whether your loved one needs elder support services, we can help. Here are 9 signs it’s time for assisted living in Covington, LA.
1. Trouble With Household Chores
Keeping a home clean can become difficult as we age. There are many chores to remember and keeping up with them can be tiring for seniors to manage. Household tasks that involve climbing stairs, getting on hands and knees, or working outdoors can be risky.
When keeping up with household chores becomes a burden for your loved one, elderly living options may be the next best step. From laundry to dusting to sweeping, you can have peace of mind knowing these senior community benefits are available for your loved one.
2. Changes in Appetite
Noticeable weight loss can be a sign that your loved one is having difficulty caring for themself. They may be struggling to shop, plan meals, or cook their food. When this happens, seniors sometimes skip meals or forget to eat.
Some signs to look for include:
- Eating the same foods each day
- Forgetting to eat
- Difficulty handling kitchen chores
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
Senior living communities know the importance of good nutrition for aging adults. They provide healthy meals to meet each resident’s nutritional needs. You can feel good knowing your loved one will receive the care and nutrition they need to be as healthy as possible.
3. Increase in Accidents or Injuries
If you notice that your loved one is experiencing frequent injuries, it’s a sign they may need to consider retirement homes in LA. Many seniors don’t have proper safety features such as walk-in showers, well-lit walkways, or wheelchair accessibility.
A quality senior living community makes safety a top priority. They have staff on-site who are well-trained for any emergency that could occur. Assisted living communities have advanced safety features and technology to prevent accidents and keep your loved one safe and secure.
4. Decline in Driving Ability
Many older adults are safe and comfortable behind the wheel. Unfortunately, for most seniors, there comes a time when it’s no longer safe to drive. If you are noticing scratches or dents on their car, it may be time to consider senior living services.
Senior living provides everything your loved one needs. They will not have to drive or put themself or others at risk. Knowing your loved one is safe and no longer driving can be a great relief.
5. Noticeable Memory Lapses
Forgetfulness to some extent is a normal part of aging. However, if your loved one is forgetting things regularly or displaying behaviors like getting lost, wandering, or forgetting to eat or drink, it’s time to consider elderly living options.
Today’s senior living communities offer memory care. These services are individualized and based on your loved one’s needs. The level of support your loved one receives can be adjusted over time as their needs change.
6. Poor Hygiene
Poor hygiene is a sign that your loved one may need more assistance. If they have trouble bathing or showering, caring for their teeth, or washing their clothes, assisted living can provide some welcome relief.
Your loved one’s dignity matters. They deserve the help they need to maintain their standard of living and personal hygiene. Assisted living staff can help your loved one with their personal care needs so they look and feel their best.
7. Difficulty Managing Finances
As your loved one ages, they are at greater risk for fraud or having trouble managing their finances. They may forget to pay their bills or forget how to access their money.
If they can’t handle their banking details or forget how their money was spent, they may need assistance managing their finances. Entering a senior living community can ease the stress of keeping up with monthly bills or dealing with the possibility of identity theft. They can rest easy knowing they are safe within a community of friends and a caring staff.
8. Feelings of Loneliness
Social isolation is a major problem for many seniors today. Seniors who live alone may not have the support or companionship they need for a fulfilling life.
One of the senior community benefits is that your loved one will not be on their own. In an assisted living community, they will enjoy activities with friends, fun outings, and mealtime with others. This can remove those feelings of isolation and help them live their best life.
9. Increased Stress
If your loved one seems constantly stressed, they aren’t thriving in their current living environment. If they seem depressed, irritable, or lethargic, they may be feeling stressed about their current situation.
When your loved one can’t keep up with household tasks or their personal hygiene, it can be very stressful. Some signs of senior stress may include:
- Weight loss
- Irritability
- Lack of interest in activities
- Loss of appetite
- Anxiety or depression
Moving to a senior living community can be a stress reliever for many seniors. With fewer responsibilities and more support, you may notice their mood and behavior improve.
Excellent Assisted Living in Covington, LA
It’s never easy to talk to a loved one about transitioning to an assisted living community. However, when your loved one is at risk, it’s an essential conversation to have.
Assisted Living in Covington, LA, may be the best choice to help your loved one lead a healthier and happier life. At The Trace, we provide care services to meet the needs of seniors wherever they are.
They will join a loving community of friends, receive individualized support, participate in fun activities, and enjoy a high quality of life.
Contact The Trace today to explore all we have to offer.
