Is it time? Deciding if Assisted Living is the Right Choice
Assisted living has emerged as an option for seniors who need a little extra help but do not require the extent of care available at a nursing home. While it is often evident when a senior requires full-time care there is no bright line to help you decide when assisted living is appropriate. However, there are some signs and things to think about when making the decision. Below are some questions to ask to help you make a good decision.
Courtesy: Flickr's apesara
About the senior:
- Is she having problems with the activities of daily life?
- Is she having problems cooking, bathing, doing laundry, eating, taking medications, or more?
- Are the needs of her house or apartment too much to bear?
- Does the senior have a medical condition that makes it difficult to live alone?
- Is the senior driving when she can no longer safely do so, in order to live independently?
- Is she lonely? Is she interacting with others less than she used to?
- Is she forgetful? Does her forgetfulness threaten her safety?
- Is the senior outgoing? Is her personality conducive to enjoying an assisted living home?
- Are the costs of in-home help increasing rapidly?
About the senior’s primary caretaker:
- Do you worry about the senior living alone?
- Are you able to go on vacation without making extensive arrangement for others to look after your loved one?
- Is your time consumed helping the senior with activities of daily life?
If you answer “yes” to many of these questions, it’s time to consider assisted living facilities. That can be a tough conversation to have. Check out our article on tips to discuss assisted living care with a parent or loved one.
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