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Knowing When to Choose Assisted Living

Is an Assisted Living Community Right for Your Loved One?

Assisted living is one of the fastest growing options for long-term senior care, offering a variety of services and amenities that make life easier and more comfortable for aging loved ones. While each situation is unique, being able to recognize the signs that loved ones could benefit from assisted living services can improve their overall quality of life.

Starting the conversation with a loved one about moving to an assisted living community may not be easy. However, if you take note of several key signs, an assisted living community may be a safe and smart move.

Signs a Loved One Could Benefit from Assisted Living Services

It’s not uncommon for our aging loved ones to wish to remain living in their current homes for as long as possible. However, as a caregiver, you might find yourself becoming overwhelmed by your caregiving duties, or you may not be qualified to provide the sufficient level of care your loved one requires.

Your loved one will enjoy an improved quality of life in an assisted living community if they are displaying the following signs:

Mobility issues.

Many seniors suffer from chronic conditions like arthritis and osteoporosis that can make it very difficult to comfortably and safely move around the home. When simple daily activities such as getting out of bed or up from the couch becomes challenging, it is time to look for assisted living options.

Decline in overall health.

As we age, many of us are faced with chronic conditions like arthritis, osteoporosis, or cognitive decline. If your loved one’s current health issues have started to escalate, you may not be able to adequately provide the level of care needed. In an assisted living community, a team of caring professionals is available around the clock to ensure your loved one is as healthy and as safe as possible.

Problems maintaining the home.

When you are visiting an aging loved one, it’s important to take note of the state of the home and yard. Maybe your family member has always kept a neat house, but now there are stacks of dirty dishes, dusty shelves or piles of laundry everywhere. These are all signs that your loved one could benefit from maintenance-free living in an assisted living community.

Social isolation and loneliness.

Seniors who live alone are often faced with social isolation, especially those who can no longer drive. Staying engaged with others and making social connections is key to healthy aging, as loneliness is often tied to depression or other health issues. In an assisted living community, your loved one will be presented with a wide variety of social activities and events to continue to build relationships.

Increase in home safety concerns.

Mobility or memory issues can put your loved one’s safety at risk. For example, perhaps the stairs are too difficult to navigate safely. Or, cognitive decline could lead to your family member forgetting to turn off the stove after cooking a meal.

Many seniors report that since moving to an assisted living community their overall quality of life has improved drastically. While the fear of losing one’s independence is often a concern, most residents report that the daily assisted living services they receive have actually enhanced their personal freedom! Plus, as caregivers are relieved of their caregiving duties, they have more time to enjoy building their relationship with their aging loved ones.

Quality Assisted Living in Albert Lea, MN

Thorne Crest offers comfortable, quality assisted living with a comprehensive range of services designed to meet your loved one’s needs. Click here to schedule a tour or please call 507-373-2311 today.