When families notice significant changes in their aging loved ones, a common next step is to explore long-term care. Long-term care might be a viable option when seniors need more help and their independence starts to wane. But how do you know if it’s truly the right choice for your aging loved one? In this article, we’ll explore long-term care, provide common signs it may be time to move, and give tips on approaching the decision.
What is Long-Term Care?
Long-term care refers to various types of services designed to support older adults as they age. These services usually include housekeeping, meals, recreational activities, and transportation and may extend to assistance with everyday tasks, such as bathing or managing medications, depending on the level of care. Despite the nuances between levels of care, most long-term care offers around-the-clock security and support from trained professionals. Long-term care doesn’t just mean nursing homes; it includes other forms of senior residential living, such as assisted living communities and memory care facilities.
Signs It May Be Time to Consider Long-Term Care
Many families struggle to know for sure when their aging loved one needs long-term care. However, if you’ve started to observe any of the changes listed below, long-term care could be worth exploring.
- Frequent Falls or Physical Decline – Has your loved one fallen recently, or have they experienced multiple falls within a short period? Do they seem to struggle with mobility, such as getting up and down from chairs or walking around their home? Frequent falls or a decline in strength and balance are usually signs that they need more support.
- Challenges With Daily Living Activities – Activities of daily living refer to basic everyday life tasks, such as eating, bathing, and dressing. Although seniors may slow down or need more time to complete everyday tasks as they age, when such tasks become difficult or overwhelming, they may benefit from a long-term care setting where they can receive more assistance.
- Increased Need for Medical Supervision – Some seniors begin to struggle with medication management or navigating a chronic illness that requires more diligence. If your loved one has a health condition that requires consistent monitoring or they are feeling overwhelmed with taking their medications properly, long-term care can often provide both medical oversight and peace of mind for families.
- Memory Loss or Cognitive Changes – Another common sign is noticeable changes in memory, decision-making, or behavior, often pointing to cognitive decline. In this instance, long-term care that specializes in memory care can provide added support from professionals who are trained to care for seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s.
- Caregiver Burnout – Many families neglect to consider their own feelings and health as they ponder the question of long-term care for an aging loved one. However, if you’ve been providing more help or hands-on care for your elderly relative and are starting to feel overwhelmed, this, too, can be a sign that it’s time for long-term care. Long-term care provides a team of professionals who can shoulder the responsibility together, and it allows you to become a family member once again instead of a caregiver.
Making the Decision: A Family Approach
Choosing long-term care is a personal and sometimes challenging decision. Many families struggle with bringing up the topic of conversation for fear of hurting their aging loved one’s feelings. However, if your loved one is struggling to stay safe and independent in their own home, it’s best for everyone that you gently bring up the conversation. Involve your loved one as much as possible, ensuring they feel heard and valued. Include them as you tour local long-term care communities, keeping their personality and lifestyle preferences in mind before you make any decisions. Take time to understand what each facility offers in terms of care and amenities, and don’t rush into a contract until your loved one is on board. If your loved one is not ready but needs help, consider alternatives to long-term care, such as home care, and appeal to their doctor for further support.
Senior Living Solutions Can Help
At Senior Living Solutions, we’re here to guide families through the journey of finding the right senior living option tailored to their loved one’s needs and preferences. We’ll help you evaluate your options, ask the right questions, and narrow your search so that you’re only touring communities that can meet your loved one’s care needs. Our services are free, so why not take us along on your journey? To learn more, contact us today by calling 501-650-3013.