If you have an elderly loved one who needs assistance, you might find yourself in a place where you’re not sure what your next step is. You want to make sure your loved one is well cared for and safe, but you also want the solution to provide her with joy and comfort as she ages. For many elderly individuals, finding a safe assisted living facility will be their next residence and it doesn’t have to be a negative step. Assisted Living facilities come in many styles, with many different offerings, all ready to welcome your loved one with open arms.
Six Key Considerations When Contemplating an Assisted Living Facility
How do you know if your loved one can get by on just a little more help at home, or if they need to move into an assisted living facility?
Here are six key items to consider as you and your family members make this important decision.
Location and Emergency Help. Can your loved one get the help she might need when she needs based on where is currently residing? This can be especially relevant if they live alone. Many elderly people who live in remote areas find that an accident or emergency health situation can put them too far from needed assistance.
Community Loss. Perhaps at one point, your loved one knew all of her neighbors and had great connections with them. Maybe all of her children and grandchildren lived nearby, providing plentiful visits and assistance as needed. Yet sometimes, neighbors change and family moves away, leaving an elderly loved one without anyone nearby to connect with or spend time with.
Physical limitations. If your loved one has some physical limitations that cannot be accommodated in their home, their home might not be the best place for her to live anymore.
Cognitive Impairments. If your loved one has dementia or another disorder with cognitive decline, it can be better to help them find an assisted living facility while they’re still able to understand and participate in the move.
Medical Requirements. If your loved one has reached a point where they need daily medical treatments or medications, an assisted living facility can help them stay on track with all needed care.
Boredom. Being isolated and/or unable to get out of the home can lead to long, boring days without a lot to look forward to. If your loved one likes being active and having a lot of people to engage with, an assisted living facility may be just the ticket.
How to Start the Conversation with Your Elderly Loved One
If you feel your loved one may balk at considering an assisted living facility, be ready to approach the conversation by researching some nearby facilities as well as some of the financial information. You should also prepare to enter the conversation with grace and respect for any emotions or reactions they might experience. Remember, you’ve considered this for some time and it might be the first time they’ve considered it. It can take some time for them to fully understand the benefits of an assisted living facility and warm up to the idea. Actively listen to their concerns and find answers when you don’t have them. Finally, be prepared to end the conversation and come back to it later if it’s overwhelming for them.
If you or an aging loved one is considering a move to an Assisted Living Facility for Care Services in Kennesaw GA, please contact the caring staff at Woodland Ridge today. 770-431-7055
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