Moving your senior loved one into an assisted living community might be one of the most difficult decisions you will have to make in your adult life. It’s sobering to see your loved one become less independent and potentially unsafe. When the scope of their care goes beyond your abilities to care for them, what is next? Let us help you consider and evaluate your specific situation and make the right assisted living choice for you.

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Ask yourself what you are realistically willing and able to do. Evaluate how much care and assistance you can reasonably provide. Consider your family and work situation. Be truthful with yourself and other family members. Being the sole caregiver might not be possible given your situation. To ensure your loved one’s safety, it is best to look at all of the options available to you – adult day care, an in-home companion, moving them in with you, or an adult residence.

Factors to Consider into Your Assisted Living Choice

  • Is my loved one able to maintain their day to day living?
  • Can they safely navigate their appliances?
  • Do they have an emergency plan and are they able to quickly implement that plan?
  • Are they falling in their home or yard?
  • Do you see any unexplained bruises?
  • Is the house and yard clean?
  • Are they wearing fresh, clean clothing?
  • Are they maintaining personal hygiene?
  • Are they eating balanced meals?
  • Is there fresh food in the refrigerator? (Check expiration dates.)
  • Are they able to get out with friends and family or accept visitors?
  • Are they staying up to date on bills and finances?
  • Are they engaging in the hobbies?
  • Do they have fun?
  • Are they getting outside and getting fresh air on a regular basis?
  • Are they remembering to take their medicines and keeping up with refills?
  • Are they isolated?
  • Do they seem depressed or experiencing mood changes?
  • Are they keeping up with doctors appointments?
  • Do you still experience your loved one in terms of the active and vibrant person they have been?

You know your loved one and you know your personal situation. If their care needs are changing and requiring more resources, it might be time to consider other options. Professionals at assisted living and memory care communities can carefully walk you through your options.

Considering a life change like this takes time. You can better prepare everyone involved by being proactive in researching communities and visiting (ask about their COVID visiting policy) to get a feel for what life would look like for your loved one. Making a quick, needs-based move like this is sometimes necessary. However, the more conversations and legwork you can have before that time comes, the better.

If and when the time comes to move your senior loved one, the caring, empathetic professionals are there to not only help them in the transition but also support you. Their job is not only to ensure the health and safety of your loved one but guide and walk you all through the process. Expect some bumps in the road but also peace of mind knowing your senior is safe, engaging with their new community, and well cared for. At A Banyan Residence we are here for you, and for them, when making an assisted living choice.