​Nobody wants to move. Approaching the subject may be difficult and often not a conversation you want to have. As you or your loved one begins to struggle with the tasks of daily living, it’s natural to start asking whether it’s time to consider other options or a senior's community. Here are some signs:

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1. Growing Concerns for Home Safety 

Are you worried about your loved one's susceptibility to falls? Maybe they have had multiple visits to the emergency room or even hospital stays due to mishaps such as burns, slips, cooking accidents, or other similar incidents. Additionally, you may be concerned about the potential dangers in their home, such as steep stairs, high tubs, uneven patios, or furniture with sharp edges and corners. If you feel that the home environment is becoming increasingly unsafe, it may be time to consider a more suitable living environment.

 

2. Progressing Memory Issues

Forgetting things can be a hazardous issue for seniors. A person suffering from cognitive impairment could potentially leave a heating appliance unattended or let water overflow from a bath or sink. Be aware of signs of memory loss, such as forgetfulness, repeated information, confusion, disorientation, or wandering. If you observe any of these warning signs, it's important to have a discussion with your loved one and those in the immediate circle. Don't wait until it's too late to address the situation. These signs may indicate that a senior's community may be the best option for their safety.

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3. Challenges with Personal Care

Personal care can be challenging for seniors with physical limitations or memory loss. Older adults may fear slipping on bathroom tiles or have difficulty getting in and out of the bathtub, leading them to avoid bathing altogether. If you notice signs of neglected hygiene, such as unkept appearance or poor hygiene, it may be time to investigate whether your loved one would be better off in a senior community that provides assistance with daily living activities.

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4. Neglect of Home and Finances

Observing signs of neglect in your loved one's home can indicate that they are struggling to keep up. This may include overflowing trash, increasing amounts of dust and dirt, piles of dishes, or general clutter such as unfolded laundry or unattended paperwork. Additionally, your loved one may start neglecting their finances, as evidenced by bills or mail piling up. It's important to have a conversation with your loved one about their well-being and finances and determine if daily tasks are becoming too much for them to handle.

 

5. Increased Dependence on Family and Friends

While family and friends are often willing to help a loved one in need, if the need is persistent and growing, it may be time to consider a change. Adults living with a partner may start to rely more heavily on their healthier spouse, putting a lot of stress on that individual.

 

6. Isolation at Home

Maintaining social connections is crucial as we age. A supportive community of friends and an active lifestyle can help avoid depression and lack of motivation that can come from social isolation. Senior housing communities provide residents with opportunities to socialize, participate in hobbies, and meet new people, which can be a great benefit for seniors who are becoming isolated at home.

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Helping with Care and Compassion

There are a wide variety of senior care options.  As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist®, I understand your unique needs and assist in finding solutions for them. With a holistic approach, Transition With Ease™ provides additional support and considerations like what to look for in a retirement community, assist in selecting retirement communities to consider, offer planning and guidance on next steps, and even help work through a cost analysis.  By educating you on your options, you can be in a position to make the most informed decisions. Let's talk about your options with a complimentary "Exploring Retirement Living Options" Consultation.

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