2 minute read
When to Start Considering Senior Care Options
by Expert Contributor Lindsey Poeth, Owner of Oasis Senior Advisors - Main Line
Many families don’t address the challenges of aging until they absolutely must. That delay may force families to take action in an emergency, often resulting in hasty and ill-informed decisions.
How do you know when it’s time to start looking at options? Aging seniors tend to wear their pride on their sleeve, and they will do whatever they can to hide their frailties. Here are 7 signs that it may be time to consider bringing in home health care or looking at senior living communities.
1. Isolation causing loneliness and possible depression.
Studies have shown that socialization and mental stimulation are key components to healthy aging. Moving to a senior living community will increase socialization opportunities, allow participation in activities (even as a passive observer), and increase quality of life as seniors become part of a community.
2. Loss of driver’s license.
This incredibly difficult decision must be made so our loved ones will not endanger them selves or other drivers sharing the road. Counteract their loss of independence by offering solutions such as having a caregiver who drives or moving to a senior living community that provides transportation.
3. Frequent falls.
When an elderly person falls, it can often mark the beginning of a decline in physical condition and health. It’s definitely time to obtain assistance in the home or arrange for transition to a senior living community after frequent calls to 911 due to falling or after a serious accident and/or hospitalization.
4. Drastic weight loss.
This may signal that the senior is not eating enough because he or she can no longer shop and/or prepare meals adequately.
5. Inconsistent or lack of compliance taking medications.
It’s dangerous when an individual forgets to take their medication or mistakenly takes multiple doses. Families may use a multitude of techniques (filling a weekly pill box and reminding them to take medication at specific times), but accidents can still happen.
6. Increased forgetfulness or confusion.
Forgetting to turn off a stove burner, episodes of wandering outside, or unable to remember how to use the phone are all examples of when forgetfulness becomes dangerous.
7. You are spending an inordinate amount of time as Caregiver.
Helping anyone bathe, dress, or use the toilet takes time and a great deal of emotional and physical stamina. Hiring a caregiver to perform those duties in the home or at a senior living community can help safeguard your own health and allow you to resume your adult role and responsibilities in your own personal life.
If you’re seeing any of the signs above, take some time now to become educated about available senior care options well before Mom or Dad needs them.
Expert Contributor Lindsey Poeth, Certified Senior Advisor (CSA®) and Owner of Oasis Senior Advisors - Main Line
484-947-4266
A Free, Personalized Senior Housing Placement Service for Retirement Communities • Independent Living • Assisted Living / Personal Care • Memory Care • Respite Services • Residential Care Homes • Hospice Care • Skilled Nursing Homes
www.OasisSeniorAdvisors.com/Mainline
LPoeth@YourOasisAdvisor.com
