The freedom to live life independently is something many of us take for granted. But when daily living becomes challenging for an aging loved one, their concerned family members have a responsibility to take notice – and, potentially, take action.
For seniors, living alone can be dangerous and lonely. This can lead to larger problems like depression and possible injury, further affecting their quality of life. So, how do you know when it’s the right time to start exploring senior care options?
For some, this can be fairly clear-cut. For others, it’s more of a gray area. To help you determine the answer to this, we’ve put together this list of warning signs.
Here are twelve signs your aging loved one may need senior care:
- More frequent falls or near-falls: A leading cause of injury and hospitalization in seniors, often indicating balance issues or weakness.
- Wandering from home or getting lost: A serious safety risk for individuals with cognitive impairment, including Alzheimer’s disease, as it can expose them to dangers such as traffic, extreme weather, or injury.
- Emergency Medical Services have been called to the home more than once: Multiple calls signal that the current living situation cannot safely manage the person’s ongoing medical needs or acute crises.
- Inability to self-administer medications correctly: Improper dosing — skipping, doubling up, or mixing medications — can lead to severe health complications or hospital visits.
- When a normally outgoing personality becomes withdrawn or secretive: Sudden changes in mood or behavior can point to underlying issues like depression, fear, isolation, or a decline in cognitive health.
- Difficulty with one or more daily living activities, such as bathing, preparing meals, and using the bathroom: Loss of independence in these fundamental tasks is a clear indicator that daily support is necessary to maintain health and hygiene.
- Unsanitary living conditions: Hoarding, spoiled food, or severe uncleanliness dramatically increase the risk of infection, pest infestation, and general health decline.
- Repeating questions or making multiple phone calls asking the same questions: A classic sign of short-term memory loss and cognitive decline, making it difficult for the person to process or retain new information.
- Confusion, agitation, or paranoia: These psychological symptoms can be signs of dementia, a medical condition, or a medication reaction, making the person and caregivers feel unsafe and distressed.
- Diagnosis of dehydration and/or malnutrition: Often results from difficulty preparing meals or forgetting to eat and drink, leading to weakness, organ strain, and increased susceptibility to illness.
- Unsafe behaviors, such as leaving the stove on or exterior doors open: Actions that pose immediate, severe danger to the person and the home, like fire or unauthorized entry.
- Deterioration of personal hygiene: Neglected grooming, oral care, or wearing soiled clothes suggests a struggle with mobility, depression, or an inability to follow multi-step routines.
Important Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is intended for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified health care provider, physician, or other licensed medical professional regarding any questions or concerns about a loved one’s health, safety, or medical condition. Never disregard or delay seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website.
I’m Not Old Enough!
We meet many seniors who say they’re not old enough – they won’t even consider any of the many types of senior care communities. When we take a tour, they walk away and say, “Those people are too old. We have nothing in common. What will we talk about?”
Usually, this negativity stems from a combination of anxiety and pride. Anxiety, like the first day at a new school, where everyone else is established and you feel like an outsider. Pride, because few people willingly embrace the fact that they can no longer live independently.
As we age, life naturally changes. At the age of 60, we can’t do things like we did at 30. At the age of 80, we can’t do things like we did at 70. It happens. That’s life. But you know what? Eldercare communities are absolutely full of life. These communities are designed to keep seniors active and social, so they can be their best, happiest selves.
We find that most seniors – even the ones who argue and say, “I’m not that old” – change their tune once they move in and get settled. Once they have a chance to meet their fellow residents, they no longer feel like an outsider but a cherished member of the community.
And that’s when “I’m not old enough!” turns into “Why didn’t I do this sooner?”
When the topic of moving to a senior living community comes up, there’s always some concern about losing independence and control. That’s only natural. But so is aging. So rather than resist it, let us help you find the best place for your loved one to enjoy this next stage of life.
How About You? Are You Ready?
Your loved one might be ready for senior care, but are you ready?
This is important but underdiscussed. As the decision maker, stress will fall squarely on your shoulders. This is a process that will take a significant amount of your energy, first, to make the decision, and then, if the decision is to move, to get everything in place.
Make sure you are surrounded by your own support system. Keep your strength and stamina in gear when deciding the next steps for your loved one. Unfortunately, you don’t get to decide when it’s time. When your loved one needs senior care, the time is now.
That’s what we’re here for. We make this decision easier and more manageable for you.
When a Loved One Needs Senior Care, We Help You Find It
It isn’t easy watching your loved one go through this and coming to the realization that they can’t take care of themselves anymore. They might not like it – in fact, they might resist and argue and complain until they’re blue in the face – but getting them the care they need is a far better result than having something happen to them.
At Senior Care Authority, we have helped hundreds of families in similar situations find the best solution that gives everyone peace of mind. Reach out to us today for a free senior care consultation – you’ll be glad you did!