Is It Time for Assisted Living?

Dear Donna:

My siblings and I have been dividing up caregiving duties for our father for several years. We all live about the same distance from him, and it’s worked well until recently. Dad’s personal care needs have increased, and we are struggling to keep up with everything.

My brothers and I think it is time to consider assisted living. My dad has gotten a little unsteady on his feet and has come close to falling several times. He’s also isolated living in his big house alone. I worry something will happen to him, and we won’t know.

Could moving to an assisted living community help my dad? How will moving benefit him?

Best regards,

Tina in Midland, MI

Benefits of Assisted Living Communities

Dear Tina:

While every situation is unique, some red flags indicate an older adult might not be safe living alone in their home. Your dad seems to be displaying some of the most common ones. Choosing to make a move before an emergency arises gives you more time to make an informed decision.

If you are trying to talk with your dad about the benefits of assisted living, here are a few points to include:

• Environment: Assisted living communities are designed with senior safety in mind. Some of the standard features and amenities may offer the support your dad needs. Handrails in hallways, accessible bathrooms, grab bars in key locations, good lighting, and single-floor living are a few.
• Socialization: Loneliness and isolation are linked to a decline in health among older people. So, you are right to worry about your dad feeling lonely. It can contribute to depression, loss of core strength, diabetes, cardiac disease, and more. In an assisted living community, residents benefit from formal and informal activities throughout the day.
• Nutrition: Depending on the community, residents usually enjoy a variety of in-house dining and menu options. Seniors who move to an assisted living community often find their health improves simply by having easy access to well-balanced meals. Research shows that poor nutrition is sometimes linked to a higher risk for falls.
• Transportation: One of the services assisted living residents use most often is transportation. Residents can go on planned community outings, such as to a local shopping mall or restaurant. In addition, they can schedule transportation for appointments. This service allows seniors to maintain a sense of independence.
• Medication management: Assisted living caregivers also handle all the details of managing residents’ medications. They assist at dosage time, order refills, and watch for adverse reactions. This brings peace of mind to residents and their loved ones.

I hope this information is helpful to you and your family, Tina! Please let me know if you have any additional questions.

Kind regards,

Donna

Heritage Senior Communities in Michigan and Indiana

A family-owned business for four generations, Heritage Senior Communities has communities throughout Michigan and one in Indiana. We invite you to call the location nearest you to learn more today!