Caring for loved ones requires families to be aware of changing health and social conditions. Monitoring and revising a situation when needed plays a significant role in maintaining the highest quality of life. Here are the warning signs for seniors living at home.
If health, security, or an inaccessible house becomes an issue, the time may quickly arrive when it’s no longer safe for them to live at home alone. The key for families is to recognize the signs so they can together decide on the best option.
Warning signs for seniors living at home
Minor accidents or small incidents can happen to anyone. But when families begin seeing a declining pattern, it’s crucial to take action before their loved one’s health and wellness is impacted.
Consider the following warning signs if you have a senior living at home.
• Falling frequently: Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults. If your loved one falls regularly, it could indicate mobility issues or other health problems requiring professional attention.
• Wandering and getting lost: Changes in cognitive ability can lead to wandering, a common issue for seniors with dementia. This can be a dangerous warning sign for older adults living at home as they may become lost and unable to return.
• Medication mishaps: Proper medication management is essential for controlling chronic conditions. Skipping doses or taking incorrect amounts can lead to serious health complications.
• Poor nutrition: If you notice your loved one is no longer eating well, losing weight or showing signs of malnutrition, this is a strong indicator they’re struggling to maintain a healthy diet.
• Increased loneliness: Losing family and friends or moving away from familiar settings can trigger loneliness, especially for those living alone. This symptom can greatly impact mental health.
• Increased isolation: Older adults living alone and having few transportation options or opportunities for activities and social events may begin to experience social isolation. This is a serious health risk and can lead to depression and impaired cognitive function.
Download your copy of the
Early Signs of Dementia Guide.
Options to consider if you’ve seen the warning signs
If your loved one is beginning to struggle with basic daily activities, declining health or exhibiting the above warning signs for seniors living at home, it may be time to consider different options. The following are a few possibilities:
• Increase the frequency of family visits and caretaking.
• Ask family friends or neighbors if they can check in on them and offer assistance if needed.
• Hire a personal home care or healthcare provider to fill in gaps on the schedule.
• Make a new home in an assisted living community.
Why an assisted living community can be the perfect solution
An assisted living community can often be the right choice for families seeing warning signs for their loved ones living at home. Consider the wide range of benefits offered:
• Support to maintain independence: Older adults often worry they’ll lose their independence. But with the support of compassionate care, accessible residences and fitness classes, residents gain independence, become less reliant on family and friends and enjoy improved health.
• Safety and security: With 24-hour supervision and assistance available, risks associated with falling or wandering are significantly reduced. Emergency response systems and staff training ensure that help is always on hand.
• Health and wellness: These communities offer structured wellness programs, regular assessments and medication management. Nutritional needs are met with balanced, chef-prepared meals tailored to older adults’ palates and dietary requirements.
• Social engagement: Living in a community setting helps alleviate the loneliness and isolation many seniors experience. Daily activities, group outings and social events encourage friendships and community involvement.
• Peace of mind for families: Knowing your loved one is in a safe, supportive environment provides peace of mind. Families can be involved in care planning and remain active in their loved one’s life without the day-to-day pressures of caregiving.
• Help in navigating the care systems: Besides the reassurance that their loved one is safe, families benefit from an assisted living community’s support system. This includes advice and counseling services to help navigate elder care.
Making the senior living decision
If your loved one is showing signs of struggling with living alone – whether it’s frequent falls, difficulty with medication or feelings of isolation – assisted living can offer a valuable solution.
These communities are designed to support the health, happiness and overall well-being of residents, while providing a vibrant social environment. By choosing assisted living, families can ensure their loved ones continue to live fulfilling lives and are well-cared for. As you consider the next steps, remember that you are not alone—many resources and supportive communities are available to guide you through this journey.
The Charleston Senior Living Community
Locally owned and operated, we offer personalized care by our dedicated team members. Setting a new standard in Assisted Living and Memory Care, we don’t define our residents by their limitations or illness but instead believe in focusing on the positive and the possibility.
The Charleston Senior Community includes private apartments for assisted living residents and for those living with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Your loved ones will benefit from our attention to detail, routine health assessments, delicious dining and daily activity programs as we support everyone to live their best life.
Consider a few of our amenities:
• Chef-led dining program
• Community movie theater
• Salon
• Ballroom
• Live entertainment
• Outdoor patio
• Social lounges
• Housekeeping
If you or your family is thinking about Assisted living or Memory care, we hope you will consider The Charleston Senior Community. We are a trusted resource and are here to answer any questions, contact us today.
We also invite you to download your copy of the Early Signs of Dementia Guide guide to learn more about what to look for in older adults that might mean it’s time to consider senior living.
