Know when it’s time for assisted living
Deciding to explore assisted living for a loved one is a big step, and knowing when to take it can be challenging.
Family members and seniors themselves aren’t always aware of the need until a crisis.
However, there are common indicators to help family members know when it’s time to start thinking about assisted living for their loved one:
• Short-term memory loss
• Forgetting to pay bills, routine tasks
• Lack of followthrough
• Issue avoidance to hide a lack of understanding
• Disorientation of time or place
• Loss of judgment — illogical or out-of-character approach to problem solving
• Weight loss — not cooking or eating regularly • Dirty dishes, unwashed laundry, clutter at home
• Not bathing regularly, wearing clothes repeatedly without washing
• Not taking medication or taking it improperly
• No longer participating in favorite activities
• Avoiding social situations and losing touch with friends
• Showing signs of depression
“Changes can be subtle,” said Beverly Sanborn, LCSW, gerontologist for Belmont Village Senior Living. “Signs and intensity levels can vary. If signs are consistent and ongoing, an assessment is in order.”
For information, call Belmont Village Hunters Creek, 713-781-1505 or Belmont Village West University, 713-592-9200, or visit www.belmontvillage.com.