When does someone need assisted- living?

If an elder is struggling to keep up with everyday tasks and activities such as eating, grooming or moving around the house, it might be because they need some sort of help. If you notice that a senior relative is unable to do simple things, it might be time to start exploring long-term care options.

“For many, being home may feel independent, but if they’re unable to drive, don’t visit friends as often anymore, or don’t eat as well, this can be very isolating and can lead to depression,” says Michelle Aweshah, regional sales director at a Place for Mom. “Being ‘independent’ can quickly become a detriment to quality and longevity of life.”

What should you factor in when choosing a long-term care facility?

If you want to make sure that you find a spot at one of the long-term facilities of your choosing, it’s better to start searching and identifying the ones you like early on. That’s because the best facilities for seniors may have a waiting list. The last thing you need when in a crisis is having to wait for an opening.

Therefore, decide what kind of facilities work for your and your elderly relatives; whether an all-inclusive facility or one that provides basic services and charges extra for additional ones, one with normal visitation hours, one that allows you to visit and care for the residing senior, it’s better to know what you’re interested in from the very beginning.