One of the most challenging decisions anyone can make is deciding when a parent or loved one is no longer able to live by themselves or take care of themselves. Most of us have always relied on our parents throughout life but never consider that they may someday have to rely on us.
How will we know when it’s time to start thinking about assisted living? One of the best ways is by looking at the activities of daily living (ADLs) that are essential to healthy living.
Essential Activities of Daily Life (ADLs)
Can they:
- Bathe and dress themselves?
- Use the toilet easily?
- Get in and out of the bed easily?
- Move around the house and up and down stairs easily?
The next things to look at are what we call instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs). These are more complex activities that often require organizational skills and involve critical thinking.
Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs)
Are they:
- Eating regular healthy balanced meals?
- Paying their bills on time and handling finances?
- Remembering to take their medication?
- Wearing fresh, clean clothing?
- Operating household appliances safely?
- Cleaning and doing household chores?
- Able to access transportation or get around?
- Able to move about their home easily?
- Able to call the right person in an emergency?
- Staying active and socializing?
Try to be as objective as possible as it’s easy to have feelings of denial. Remember, denying possible signs of dementia or limited mobility can actually put the health of your loved ones at risk for an accident or medical emergency in the future.
When you look objectively, do you see someone still active and just as vibrant as they were years ago, or do you see someone who needs more help around the house and possibly some assistance with finances? When you are able to look at things objectively it helps you become more proactive in their future health and well-being.
As seniors age, loss of mobility, chronic medical conditions, and dementia or Alzheimer’s disease are typically the most important signs that it may be time for assisted living. But there are other signs you want to look out for as well. For example, many seniors struggle to keep up with financial responsibilities and are often targeted by scammers. In this type of situation where they may need help managing their finances, there is a document called a Power of Attorney which can allow someone to handle financial matters on their behalf.
9 Signs That It May Be Time for Assisted Living
- Bruises from recent accidents or falls
- Fallen and was unable to get back up
- Missed payments or victim of a financial scam
- Depressed or addicted to drinking, smoking, or prescription drugs
- Inability to remember recent things or feeling confused
- Unnaturally skinny, thin, or malnourished
- Poor body hygiene or signs of infrequent bathing
- Expired or spoiled food in the refrigerator
- Living space is dirty and unhealthy
What is Assisted Living?
Assisted living in Los Angeles is typically for seniors who can do many activities on their own but are unable to do some things comfortably, or they are no longer able to live alone safely. Assisted living residents usually have their own living space and benefit from socializing with other residents. Meals are typically provided and sometimes residents can cook for themselves if they are able.
Making the decision to move to assisted living can be difficult but it’s often better to make the decision when your loved one is healthy and safe rather than waiting until a medical emergency or accident occurs that forces the issue. We find that after a short period of adjustment, many seniors appreciate the high level of care and support that assisted living provides along with more opportunities for socializing and group activities that ultimately make life fun and rewarding.
We’re Here to Help
Moving a parent or loved one to senior or assisted living is never an easy decision but knowing what questions to ask and knowing what safety procedures are in place can help ease your mind during this difficult transition.
We are offering phone, Zoom, and FaceTime consultations including virtual tours of senior living and assisted living communities and residential homes. Currently, there are board & care residential homes and assisted living communities accepting residents, and now is an excellent time to make a reservation as there are promotions that will end soon.
We will guide you through the entire process – all at no cost to you.
Call Ron Passaro at 310-428-8221. The Passaro Group is here for you.
