Is it time? 

So you are considering if it is the right time for your loved one to move into a new living arrangement or is it an option to make some changes in the current situation? 

 

Some signs suggested by Agingcare.com that may help you determine if this move is necessary or if some basic changes can be made instead:

 

Signs that may indicate it's time for assisted living:

• Is your parent telling you that they are eating, but you're seeing food go bad in the refrigerator?

• Is your parent falling? To determine the answer, is your parent covering up bruises he or she doesn't want you to see?

• Is your parent wearing the same clothes when you go to visit? Can they bathe themselves, groom adequately and launder clothes?

• When you look around the house or yard, is it as neat and clean as it used to be?

• Is your aging parent remembering to take medications correctly, with the right dosages and at the right time? Are medications expired?

• Are they able to operate appliances safely? Do they remember to turn appliances off when they are finished cooking?

• Is the home equipped with safety features such as grab bars and emergency response systems?

• Do they have a plan in place to contact help in case of an emergency?

• Are they driving? Should they be driving? Do they have alternate means of transportation?

• Are there stacks of papers and unpaid bills lying around?

• Do they have friends, or are they isolated from others most of the time?

• When you really look at your parent, do you see the bright and vibrant person from years ago, or do you see a more limited person who needs some help one hour a day, or even around the clock?