As we age, the risk for developing chronic conditions grows exponentially, and we slowly lose the ability to live an independent life. Whether it is due to lack of mobility, cognitive impairment, or disease, aging people, like our parents, need significantly more care than we can provide. Nobody wants to admit they need help, but if your parents are 65 or older, or exhibit any of these warning signs, it may be time to look into the benefits of senior living assistance.
Keep reading to learn 3 signs they might need assistive care.
1. They Can’t Take Care of Themselves
No one likes to think that their parents can’t care for themselves, and they are not likely to admit it. There are physical signs that your parent may need senior living assistance. If they,
- Wear the same clothes, or dirty clothes, for multiple days
- Have lost weight (due to lack of energy, depression, inability to cook or grocery shop)
- Let the house become dirty, cluttered, or difficult to move around in
- Let the yard become overgrown
- Neglect personal hygiene
- Have difficulty driving
- Appear to have bruises or other visible injuries (such as from a fall)
then your parents may need the help of professional assisted living facilities. Physical or cognitive decline can be gradual, happening over several years, or can occur rapidly. They may also try to hide their struggles, especially if they don’t believe it impacts their quality of life.
2. Their Medical Care is Becoming More Demanding
Chronic conditions may become more challenging to manage in older age, and recovery from acute illnesses or injuries take longer. As people get older, the chances of developing a chronic disease rise significantly. In fact, four out of every five adults over the age of 50 are diagnosed with at least one chronic illness.
These are conditions like high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, diabetes, mental health, and progressive disorders like Alzheimer’s disease. The likelihood of accidents, injuries, or other medical emergencies also rises. This may mean it is not safe for them to live on their own.
If your parents need routine medical care, it is often not practical for you to try to facilitate their care all on your own. Professional caretakers are appropriately equipped to handle their medical needs.
3. They Have Difficulty Keeping Up With Financial Responsibilities
Seniors have high rates of poverty. According to the National Council on Aging, more than 25 million Americans at the age of 60 or older have financial insecurity, defined as living 250% below the federal poverty line. A majority depend on Social Security as their sole or main source of income.
Income from SS may not be enough to support them or their monthly costs. If your parents are unable to work, receive enough income, or are not eligible for additional support, this can inhibit their life in significant ways.
Additionally, conditions that affect memory or cognitive function may impact their ability to do things such as pay bills on time, complete their taxes, or keep track of where their money is going. Older people are often, unfortunately, targeted by financial scammers. Assisted living homes can alleviate many financial burdens from your parents.
You can contact Dimensions Living about pricing and to find relief for your parents.
These Are the Signs Your Parents Need Senior Living Assistance
If you notice a decline in your parent’s ability to take care of themselves, such as wearing dirty clothes, losing weight, neglecting hygiene habits, and more, it is time to look into senior living assistance.
Other indicators are an increase in medical care demands and financial difficulties. Approach this conversation gently and educate yourself about your options.
If you found this article on assisted living helpful, look at the other posts on our site for more.
