Like my mom and dad Grow upPerhaps the big question looms: when is the right time to provide assisted living?
Dr. Macy P. Smith, a licensed social worker and geriatrician based in South Carolina, shared with Fox News Digital that there may be some clear signs that it's time to make a move, whether that's hiring an in-home aide or looking About the living facility.
1. They are at risk of hurting themselves
Most importantly, Smith noted that if a senior is at risk of hurting themselves or getting into dangerous situations, this is likely a good time to seek help.
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Smith, who specializes in treating seniors with Alzheimer's disease and cognitive impairment, recommended starting with recruitment. Help at home Before removing a family member from his home.
Experts warn that memory loss can cause dangerous environments and behaviors in older people. (Istock)
“The last thing anyone wants to lose is their independence,” she said. “The last thing anyone wants is to live in a place with 50 other strangers.”
Home support can help reduce the risk of self-injury due to accidents such as leaving the stove on, or mobility issues that can lead to falls.
2. The person suffers from memory problems
As they age, their ability to remember things naturally begins to slow down.
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Sometimes, this manifests itself in the form of diseases such as: Alzheimer's disease or dementia. According to experts, the severity of memory loss in elderly people determines whether live support is necessary or not.
Smith mentioned how forgetting familiar tasks and activities, such as eating, can pose a risk to a person's health.
“Respect them enough to have the conversation, because they still have the power to make decisions about their lives.” (Istock)
“If they are Nutrition is bad“It may be because they are dealing with some pain that they are not expressing to anyone else,” she said. “Maybe they're dealing with some depression, and frankly, they're not motivated.”
“Respect them enough to have the conversation, because they still have the power to make decisions about their lives.”
The expert advised paying attention to signs of spoiled food in the refrigerator.
A person may also forget how to do simple tasks such as making the bed, doing laundry, washing dishes, or following cooking instructions.
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“If they have a cognitive problem, they have difficulty making decisions, and that will ultimately impact how they live independently,” Smith said.
3. They repeat themselves
Recurring thoughts are also common in the individuals they live with Alzheimer's disease And dementia.
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Smith noted that if your loved one repeats themselves frequently, it's a good idea to get some support not only to help with daily living, but also for attention and friendship.
Repetitive thoughts are common in individuals with Alzheimer's disease and dementia. (Istock)
“In some cases, it's because they're lonely,” she said. “This is because they live alone, and they don't have any kind of involvement or stimulation.”
A “very difficult” decision.
Smith stressed how difficult it was to decide to file A family member In care, especially if it means removing them from their home.
She urged that the administrator “always be part of the conversation” when it comes to determining next steps.
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“The last thing you want to do is come in and uproot them from where they feel most comfortable and safe, just because you feel like they shouldn't be there,” Smith said.
“Always include them in the conversation, even if they are in the early stages of dementia,” she encouraged. “They still have the clarity…to be able to participate in the decision-making process.”
The expert warned that depriving your loved one of control and independence can cause problems. Instead, “we need to be there to support them and provide services around them.” (Istock)
Whether the decision is to bring in care or move to a new place, Smith said a senior should never be made to feel unsafe or unfamiliar, as this can increase risky behaviors, cause agitation and lead to Deteriorating health.
You should also not start the conversation with the assumption that the senior will not honor your request or suggestion.
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“Don't assume they won't remember,” Smith said. “Don't assume they will be irritable and combative.”
“Respect them enough to have the conversation, because they still have the power to make decisions about their lives.”
