It’s easy to overlook signs of decline in mom and dad. Determine whether your parent is ready for assisted living by asking yourself these critical questions.
- Does your parent experiencing memory loss in a situation that results in moderate to severe consequences? Examples include forgetting doctor appointments, medications, or regular meals?
- Has your parent lost or gained weight recently? Have they told you that he or she is eating, but you find expired food in the refrigerator?
- Has your parent suffered from a recent fall? Are they covering up bruises and are unsure where the bruises came from?
- Does your parent wear the same clothes each time you visit, or do you notice uncharacteristic hygiene concerns?
- Does your parent hear strange noises in the night?
- Is house or yard as neat and clean as it used to be?
- Can your parent correctly take medications? Does he or she know which medications they should take, when, and why?
- Does your parent respond appropriately to an emergency?
- When you look closely, do you see the bright and vibrant person from years ago? Or do you see someone with more limits, who needs some help and supervision?
- Does your parent’s driving concern you? Has he or she had a recent accident, received a traffic ticket, or found unexplained scratches or dents in their vehicle?
It is never too early to explore assisted living care for a loved one. While not open to the general public, Shell Point residents have a choice of three excellent assisted living residences, with access to the entire community of lifestyle amenities and healthcare resources. Learn more at https://shellpoint.org/assistedliving.