As a person ages, they may lose daily skills that younger people take for granted. During the aging process, bones become brittle, muscle tissue diminishes, and a person’s overall physical strength weakens. It can be very difficult to walk, navigate stairs, climb, lift, or perform other movements that you need during daily living activities. If your parents have begun to age, you may have developed safety concerns. Can your mom safely climb in and out of a bathtub? Does your dad need a wheelchair, and does he have difficulty accessing different areas of his home? Assisted living retirement homes are a great option for the elderly. Here are four reasons why you should consider moving your loved one into a retirement facility.
1. Physical Safety Concerns
The number one reason why anyone moves a loved one into an assisted care facility is because of safety concerns. When you are concerned about your mother, father, or an aging loved one falling down the stairs or while walking, an assisted care facility can greatly help. Assisted care facilities encourage independence, but also provide around the clock care to prevent injuries. They will help your loved one with their hygiene routine, traveling from one place to another, and call a physician or medical staff if your loved one gets hurt.
2. Memory Loss
Your aging loved one may also start forgetting things as they get older. Memory loss is a common symptom of aging. Although forgetting a birthday may not seem like a big deal, forgetting that the stove or oven is on is a tremendous concern. An assisted care facility can help cook, clean, and bring your loved one to appointments or on personal errands. You will not have to worry that your family member is at risk of burning themself or burning the house down.
3. Physical Health
If your loved one is suffering from a diagnosis or diagnoses, they are at a greater risk of decline. Often, physicians require medication to be taken on a rigid schedule. At an assisted living facility, they can help administer medication and other physician orders. For example, if your loved one requires physical exercises, they will remind and physically assist them during their therapy.
4. Socialization Opportunities
It may grow increasingly difficult for your aging loved one to spend time with friends, make friends, or socialize with other people their age. If they have lost their license, there may be times when they cannot leave the house. It can become depressing when you are retired and living without friends. At an assisted care facility, your aging loved one can make friends and will have many socialization opportunities. Assisted care facilities offer game nights and other activities that will encourage and require socialization. When someone becomes lonely, they may feel hopeless and start to give up. It is common for people to age more quickly when they feel alone. Instead, an assisted care facility will offer an opportunity for your aging loved one to maintain socialization and their mental health.