3 indications that your elderly relative might require assisted living

As parents age, the question of when to offer living assistance may arise.

A licensed social worker and gerontologist, Dr. Macie P. Smith from South Carolina, revealed to Planet Chronicle Digital that there are certain indicators that it may be time to relocate, whether it's through hiring an at-home aide or exploring a living facility.

1. They’re at risk of harming themselves

If a senior is at risk of harming themselves or getting into dangerous situations, it's likely time to seek assistance.

Smith advised starting with at-home aid before removing a loved one with Alzheimer's disease or cognitive impairment from their home.

"The last thing anybody wants is to lose their independence," she said. "The last thing anybody wants is to live in a space with 50 other strangers."

Home-based assistance can reduce the likelihood of accidents, such as forgetting to turn off the stove or slipping and falling, by providing support.

2. The person is having memory issues

With age, the natural ability to recall information slows down.

Experts determine whether seniors require living support based on the severity of memory loss, which can manifest as diseases such as Alzheimer's or dementia.

Forgetting routine tasks and activities, such as eating, can endanger one's health, as Smith pointed out.

""Their poor nutrition could be due to unspoken pain, depression, or lack of motivation," she stated."

"Respect them enough to have the conversation, because they still have the ability to make decisions about their life."

The expert advised watching out for signs of spoiled food in the refrigerator.

Simple tasks like making a bed, doing laundry, washing the dishes, or following cooking instructions may be forgotten by some people.

Smith stated that if someone is experiencing cognitive difficulties, it will affect their ability to make decisions, which in turn will impact their independence.

3. They repeat themselves

Individuals with Alzheimer's disease and dementia often exhibit repetition of thoughts.

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If your loved one is frequently repeating themselves, it's beneficial to bring in support not only for daily living assistance but also for companionship and attention.

"Loneliness is the reason in some cases," she stated. "It's due to their solitary lifestyle and lack of interaction or drive."

‘Very difficult’ decision

It can be challenging to decide to place a loved one in care, particularly if it involves taking them away from their home.

She urged that the senior should always be included in the conversation when discussing the next steps.

Smith stated, "You don't want to disrupt their comfort and safety, even if you believe they don't belong, just because you feel that way."

"Encourage including them in the conversation, even if they're in the early stages of dementia, as they still have lucidity to participate in the decision-making process."

Smith emphasized that the senior should never feel unsafe or unfamiliar, as this can increase dangerous behaviors, cause agitation, and lead to health decline, whether the decision is to bring in care or move somewhere new.

Can you please provide me with the necessary information to assist you?

""Assume they'll remember and be cooperative," Smith advised."

"It is important to have the conversation with them, as they still have the power to choose their own path in life."