When is it Time to Go into Assisted Living?

Unable to Perform Simple Physical Activities

One of the main reasons to go into an assisted living facility is when a person is no longer able to take care of themselves. This can be due to old age, illness, or injury. If you are finding that your loved one is struggling to complete everyday tasks such as bathing, dressing, and using the bathroom, it might be time to look into assisted living. Other physical activities that nursing homes and retirement communities can help with include walking, exercise programs, grooming, transportation to appointments or errands, hairdressing services, feeding assistance, bed mobility training (getting in and out of bed safely), and more. 

Memory Loss

If your loved one has been recently diagnosed with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, or another type of memory loss disorder, it might be time to consider assisted living. People who are suffering from memory disorders need more than just nursing care; they may not know how to do everyday tasks such as dressing themselves or using the bathroom without help. Memory disorders can also lead to physical disabilities, which nursing homes and assisted living facilities can help with.

Unable to Recognize Significant Other or Family Members

Another sign that it might be time to go into an assisted living facility is when the person can no longer recognize significant others or family members. This happens when Alzheimer’s disease or dementia has progressed significantly. People with these disorders can often become agitated and confused, sometimes even violent. In these cases, it is best for the person to be in a facility where they can get the care and support they need without being a danger to themselves or others.

Looking for Companionship

If your loved one is seeking companionship, nursing homes and retirement communities are great options. They allow for people to easily make friends with others who have similar interests. It’s also a good place if you don’t want to be home alone all the time but can’t afford or do not need round-the-clock nursing care. People who no longer want to be alone can enjoy the company of others, while feeling safe and secure.