Is It Time for Senior Living?

Senior living community is a catchall phrase for independent living, assisted living, and memory care communities.

For seniors who are ready to downsize, or for those who need more care than can affordably be provided at home, a senior living community can be an excellent choice. Independent living communities offer social activities, meals, and the security of knowing help is nearby. Assisted living and memory care communities do the same, but also provide the care ailing seniors need to live as independently as possible. If you or a loved one is struggling with whether it’s time to move, consider the following.

RED FLAGS

Immediate action is needed.

• Wandering. People with dementia may get lost in familiar surroundings or they may set out for a location from their past. They are at significant risk if they are alone. • Frequent falls. Injury from a fall often marks the beginning of a steep decline in physical and mental health. • Drastic weight loss. Weight loss may be due to a medical condition, self-neglect, or simply not eating enough because it’s too difficult to shop and/or prepare meals adequately. • Inconsistency taking medications. Confusion and forgetfulness can lead to under- or

over-medicating, resulting in falls, overdoses, or poorly controlled medical conditions. • Self-neglect. Self-neglect shows up as very poor personal hygiene, unkempt appearance, malnutrition and/or dehydration, squalid or unsanitary living conditions, and/or hoarding.

YELLOW FLAGS A move should be considered.

• Isolation. Studies have shown that socialization and mental stimulation are key components to healthy aging. • Increased forgetfulness or confusion. These can lead to a senior leaving the stove on, forgetting, or doubling up on medications, and vulnerability to financial predators. • Caregiver burnout/declining health. Caregiving is emotionally and physically stressful. If a caregiver feels burned out or has health issues of their own, a

“Plan B” should be put in place. • Loss of driver’s license. Giving up a driver’s license is easier when there are alternatives. A senior living community may provide transportation to local businesses and doctors’ appointments.

Editor’s Note: This article was submitted by Ben Meyer, CSA and Dennis Franklin, CSA. They are owners of the Western PA offices of Oasis Senior Advisors. Ben may be reached at 412-853-5877 or BMeyer@YourOasisAdvisor.com, and Dennis may be reached at 412-520-3551 or DFranklin@YourOasisAdvisor.com. See our ad on page 68.