Moving a loved one into a nursing home is a big decision. Most individuals do not want to make that choice because moving their loved one into a place that’s not home can be hard. The fact that this usually occurs in the later stage of a person’s life makes it a tougher decision.
While no one wants to admit it, it may be the only option you have in some situations. At that stage, the best thing you can do is find a center that will offer your loved one the best facilities and care. There are signs you should watch out for before you decide. These signs are irrefutable proof that your loved one needs assisted care that you may not be able to provide.
Poor Hygiene
If they can no longer adequately fulfil their hygiene needs, it may be a sign that it is time for a nursing home. If you have begun to notice changes like rough appearances, body odours as a result of irregular baths, irregular brushing, and dirty clothes, these are signs that they can no longer handle their hygiene regularly.
Poor hygiene has additional effects, like affecting their ability to interact socially. They would also prefer to isolate and reduce their contact with the outside world. If your loved ones are not able to take care of themselves like they once did, it may be time to get them into a nursing home.
Behavioral Changes
Behavioral changes are another indicator that your loved one might need assistance with their day-to-day living. These chances can manifest in various ways, including anxiety, paranoia, delusions, hallucinations, and aggression.
If you notice any of these changes, you should sit down with your loved one and talk to them. It may be hard to hear that they have to live in an assisted care home, but it is the best way they can get the full attention they need. It is also advisable to run medical tests to see if there are underlying issues triggering these behavioural changes.
Withdrawal and Isolation
Social connection is excellent because it fulfills the mental and emotional needs of the body. Socialization helps combat loneliness, sharpens the mind, relieves stress, and improves happiness. When your loved one begins to avoid social interactions, cancel outings, and see less of their friends, it is never a good sign.
If they have an increased desire to stay home, get easily irritable, and have problems communicating with others, then it may be time to provide assisted living care. Professional caregivers will be able to provide the attention and care that is required. In addition, being around other individuals who are their age will do wonders for their mental and emotional health.
Poor Nutrition
The older we get, the better our nutrition should become because our bodies produce less of what they need to function optimally, due to aging. This is why signs of poor nutrition should be taken seriously. If your loved one undergoes significant weight loss within a short period, it might be a sign that they need help keeping up with their daily nutrient needs.
Poor nutrition could be because they are unable to go shopping for the ingredients they need to prepare a meal, or are physically unable to cook for themselves. Whatever the case, this is a sign that it is time to put them in a nursing home where they can get the living assistance they need.
Chronic Health Condition
Chronic illnesses such as diabetes, stroke, cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s are clear indicators that your loved ones need nursing home or memory care assistance. These illnesses are hard to manage as an older adult because they require medication and constant monitoring throughout the day. This may be hard for you to provide as you work and have other commitments, but it is dangerous to leave your loved ones alone in this condition. This is why assisted living solutions are best; they can provide the round-the-clock care that they need.
Endnote
While some of these indicators may not mean much by themselves, if you notice more than one in your loved one, you need to take quick action. It can be difficult to accept that you need assisted care, so carry them along in the process. Talk to them and reassure them of your love and support. Be a present part of the transition as it makes the process seamless and less emotionally draining.