As our loved ones age, we begin to think about the types of care they will need and how we can support them.
The COVID-19 pandemic added an extra layer of considerations to an already difficult decision process: Does a community setting present a greater risk? Is my loved one safer at home?
Senior living is still the safest option for our loved ones. These communities minimize risks presented at home, including falls, while providing social support, fulfilling activities, and round-the-clock access to medical care.
Learn how to identify the signs your loved one is struggling to take care of themselves, why senior living is so safe, and how you can talk to your loved one about the big move.
Signs a Loved One is Unable to Take Care of Themselves
Health issues in our senior loved ones often appear to come on suddenly. Sometimes it’s tied to a recent event, such as a fall, but other times you may notice new confusion, forgetfulness, or trouble moving around the house.
To gauge the level of support your loved one needs, you can look to the activities of daily living (ADLs). If your loved one is experiencing trouble in any of these areas, it may be an indication that they need extra support.
The basic ADLs include:
- Ambulating
- Personal hygiene and grooming
- Toileting
- Dressing
- Eating
Is your loved one having difficulty moving around the house? Does their physical appearance seem disheveled or unkempt? Do they have trouble eating or swallowing?
These signs may indicate that they are dealing with an underlying health issue, or just need extra care and support when dressing or using the bathroom.
When Trouble with ADLs Indicates Memory Issues
Sometimes, trouble with ADLs can be a symptom of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. If your loved one is experiencing confusion or memory loss, they may be forgetting to perform their usual daily activities.
Other early signs of memory loss include:
- Repeatedly asking the same questions
- Mixing up words or forgetting common words
- Misplacing items in unusual spots
- Getting lost in familiar areas
- Taking longer to complete familiar tasks
- Mood and behavior changes that seem to come out of nowhere
Most causes of dementia are progressive, such as Alzheimer’s disease. Early intervention is key to maintaining quality of life for as long as possible.
A safe senior living community can provide the necessary support for your loved one, including security features, rehabilitation services, and an emphasis on daily comforts.
Senior living can provide true “aging in place” in a community where all their care needs can be met, no matter how they progress over time.
Why Senior Living is a Safer Option than Living at Home
When the COVID-19 pandemic began, assisted living communities stepped up to create the safest environments for residents.
The best communities love their residents and treat them like family. Community leaders are aware of all the latest safety requirements and recommendations, and incorporate these practices into their own COVID-19 protocols.
Assisted living communities are able to protect residents from external factors, and limit their exposure to anyone outside the community. Many communities also have vaccination requirements.
Outside of pandemic protocol, senior living creates an environment free of typical household dangers. Specialized memory care adds even more safety features.
What is Specialized Memory Care?
Kensington Place Redwood City is an assisted living community with two memory care neighborhoods: Connections and Haven.
Each neighborhood matches the level of care your loved one needs. The Connections neighborhood is for those in the early to middle stages of memory loss, while Haven is for those in the middle to late stages.
Residents are continually assessed to ensure they are receiving the most accurate level of care. These neighborhoods are fully secured and monitored to ensure residents are safe and protected.
On-site therapies and activities are available to boost mobility, as well as social and mental health. We emphasize daily comforts and perserve familiar routines.
How to Discuss the Move with Your Loved One
Discussing the move to safe senior living with your loved one can be difficult. They may prefer to remain at home, where they feel most comfortable.
Starting these conversations as early as possible will help your loved one accept and embrace the idea. You can call communities together to ask questions, and to make sure your loved one feels like they can voice their concerns and opinions.
Look for communities that offer as many home comforts as possible, including excellent dining options and the option to live with a spouse or bring in a pet.
At Kensington Place, your loved one has all these options and more. We are able to provide the highest levels of care with our professional, loving team.
Call us today to ask questions and tell us more about your loved one’s unique preferences.
We want to help support you and your loved one through the transition to our loving, safe community. It is Our Promise to love and care for your family as we do our own.