It is difficult for most adults to know exactly when their mothers and fathers are ready for Assisted Living. You may be experiencing a similar dilemma now with your own parent – thinking of the many years where they took care of you and now you have to take care of them. Here are several telltale signs that let you know it may be time to consider Assisted Living for your parent:
Difficulty with Handling Daily Life
How well does your parent handle basic activities of daily living (or ADLs)? Eating, dressing, cooking, shopping, handling laundry and even managing their medications are considered ADLs. Most doctors use functional assessments to determine if your parent is still able to handle these ADLs on their own or if they need assistance. If the assessment shows that they need part-time or even full-time interest, then it may be in your best interest to consider moving them into an Assisted Living facility.
Chronic Health Conditions
Does your parent suffer from a chronic health condition? There are quite a few progressive medical conditions (or even degenerative conditions) that will only worsen with time. You may be able to help your parent effectively on your own in the beginning stages. However, as their condition worsens, he or she will need more and more help. Depending on the current status of their condition, you may want to consider moving your parent into an Assisted Living facility to receive proper, ongoing care.
Recent History of Accidents
Think of the number of times that your mother may have fallen, experienced a medical scare or even got involved in an at-fault automobile accident? How long did it take for them to recover? Was it a full recovery or are they still in pain or suffering as a result? The chances of these accidents increase with age, which is why Assisted Living may serve as a timely source of protection and safety for your parent.
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