When to start looking for When to start looking for assisted living assisted living

BY VANESSA LANE, MANAGEMENT OF GOLDEN HORIZONS ASSISTED LIVING

Deciding when it’s time to start your search for an assisted living community is often challenging and resistant for not only the individual, but loved ones involved. However, by starting as soon as signs are apparent, it can make a huge difference in that individual’s longevity of life and overall well-being.

I have worked with countless individuals who took breaks from their jobs to be caretakers for their loved ones. Although in the moment it is an option, it often can make things more challenging – mentally, emotionally and physically – for the caretaker and the individual. Most often, when a family finally decides on assisted living, it is too late, meaning the individual has declined more and may be in a community for a shorter term.

Here are some signs to look for when beginning the search.

• Difficulty with daily activities such as: personal care like bathing, poor hygiene, dressing and grooming, mobility issues like frequent falls, and household management – like challenges with cleaning, laundry, clutter or unpaid bills and late payments.

• Health and safety concerns such as: forgetting to take medications or incorrect doses, weight loss due to forgetting to eat or having an empty fridge, and chronic health issues worsening.

• Cognitive and emotional changes such as: frequent forgetfulness and disorientation, isolation by withdrawing from social activities and loved ones and mood changes like irritability, anxiety or depression. Increased need for supervision such as: getting lost or wandering away from home, safety risks like leaving the stove on and doors unlocked, and frequent emergencies.

If you are starting to notice these signs, consider having a conversation with your loved one about their needs and safety right away. Visiting assisted living communities can provide insights into services and support available they will benefit from. By involving your loved one in this process, it will be a positive step towards enhanced independence, safety and social engagement.

There are many stigmas on assisted living that deter individuals from making that step forward with it. Many people believe that when moving into an assisted living community you lose your independence, but actually many residents enjoy a vibrant, active lifestyle with support of daily activities and customized services.

Another popular stigma is that assisted living is just like living

- Franklin Arts Center - Westport Shopping Center in a nursing home, but assisted living actually offers a balance of independence and care with amenities like fitness classes, social events, dining services and more. You also are given options on a variety of apartments to make it your new home instead of sharing a room in more of a hospital like setting.

Times have changed and assisted living is very different from past nursing home perceptions.

I know how overwhelming it can be for loved ones to move their family member into a community, but once they do, it is the best possible life that a loved one and their family could ask for. With safety, comfort and independence, residents can enjoy their life again with peace of mind and hope for a better future.