It is emotionally difficult to accept that your elderly loved one needs to move into an assisted living facility. While you intend to have a comfortable transition, the decision comes with its challenges. It is especially emotional for the elderly to come to terms with the fact that they have to leave what they've always called home. Separation from those they love and the fear of lost independence can be difficult for anyone. Navigating this process and making the elderly understand that it is for their good isn't a walk in the park.
However, you must not force your aged relative to accept the option. Instead, have a healthy conversation with them regarding their enrolment at an aged care facility and the options available. Read on to learn the instances when enrolling your loved one in an assisted living facility is necessary.
1. If They Need More Socialisation Opportunities
Apart from the relationships that the elderly will create with the staff and other caregivers in the aging home facility, building a connection with other residents is also essential. This way, your senior will not be isolated, and they are more likely to participate in activities that will enrich them. Senior living facilities also try to engage the elderly in games, happy hour moments, and fitness lessons.
2. If You Reside Far from the Elderly Person
Although you may have the will to help and look after your elderly loved one, circumstances can prove otherwise. Take your career as an example. If you get a job far away, you'd have to leave your loved one alone. After all, you need funds to take care of them. Also, it wouldn't be fair to stop furthering your career indefinitely.
If your loved one is self-sufficient, an at-home caregiver would do. But if they are not, then the best option is an aged care facility to get adequate care around the clock. In this scenario, it is important to find strength in acknowledging that both your lives and wellbeing matter. More so, you can always pay them a visit and video chat with them anytime.
3. If You Have Any Household Concerns
When you see signs of a neglected home, it's an indication that your aged relative is struggling. Some signs of neglect include poor housekeeping, piled bills or mails, and stale foods. All these are indications of physical weakness, and professional assistance needs to come in.
It is essential to observe the behaviour of your aging loved ones. In case you notice strange behaviour, it's probably time to start talking about assisted living care.