Looking after a senior parent or loved one can be a lot to handle. If they are still fairly independent, you might think you can handle the care yourself. Or maybe they have additional help, like other family members or a caretaker. However, there are situations where the care you and your family can provide for your loved one may simply not be what’s best or enough for them anymore.
In this blog post, we’ll shine a light on some of the most common signs to pay attention to in your loved one’s life. These signs may indicate that the time is right to explore assisted living in Glenview, IL.
They Need More Help With Daily Tasks
Have you noticed your loved one’s home looking more cluttered or unclean than usual? Maybe the dishes are stacked up in the sink for days or the trash is not getting taken out as often as it should. Perhaps you noticed that they keep wearing the same outfit over and over? A lot of seniors struggle to do their laundry and keep up with other household chores. While oftentimes they may not want to admit it, these are telling signs that your loved one may feel overwhelmed in their daily life. Perhaps they’ve even expressed to you directly that they would appreciate more help with their day-to-day tasks.
They’re Lacking Proper Nutrition
If you notice your loved one is looking a little too thin or not eating regular meals, they may not be getting their necessary nutrition. An assisted living community can be of tremendous support in helping your loved one with cooking and preparing their food. Senior living communities usually cover all necessary meals and often snacks for their residents. Exceptional care communities even tailor their dining experience specifically to seniors’ preferences and needs.
They Struggle With Medication Management
As people get older, often their list of medications and supplements grows. This can be overwhelming for seniors and cause them to mix up or skip medications by accident. To make sure your loved one’s well-being and safety aren’t compromised, living in a dedicated assisted living community can help. Being surrounded by attentive and knowledgeable staff will give both you and your loved one peace of mind that their medical needs are met. Care staff in assisted living is specially trained to know how to help your loved one stay on top of all their medications as directed.
They May Be Feeling Lonely or Isolated
If your loved one lives alone, they are likely to get lonelier and more isolated as they age. People over the age of 60 are statistically at greater risk of slipping into isolation. And this can lead to other health concerns, such as depression, anxiety, or early dementia. To help avoid this, take a proactive approach. Talk to them directly and ask them if they may enjoy living in a community surrounded by peers. Also, ask them if they may enjoy more activities in their days. Being able to participate in an on-site physical wellness class or joining their neighbors on a trip to explore Glenview may lift your loved one’s spirit and improve their life significantly.
They Have Growing Health Concerns
One of the big benefits of living in an assisted living community is that there are often additional levels of care available for residents. If your loved one’s health care needs change, they are already in the right place, and care routines can be adjusted. That way, you and your loved one know they are safe and comfortable, no matter what.
Many seniors greatly value their independence and might hesitate to admit that they’d like more help. However, the above signs are all hints that your loved one would probably be happier and more comfortable in a caring assisted living community.
If you’re looking for some guidance on how to navigate the journey of assisted living for your loved one, we have a helpful guide for you: The Complete Guide to Glenview Assisted Living. In this guide, we explain what exactly assisted living provides to residents, important factors for different communities, and other tips. This will help you and your loved one make this move a smooth and enjoyable experience. Download your copy of the free guide here.
