Signs Your Aging Parent Might Need Assisted Living

Since no one knows your parents quite like you do, it’s your job to look after them as they get older. Part of that job includes recognizing the signs that an aging parent needs assisted living. Getting them to admit they need help on their own might not happen, so it’s important to pay attention as a caregiver.

It’s common for seniors to want to maintain their independence and control for as long as possible. Downplaying issues and hiding insecurities can often convince you everything is fine. However, you don’t want to wait until an accident or sudden health decline to get them the help they need.

By making yourself aware of the signs an aging parent needs assisted living, you can prepare yourself to find a higher level of care when the time comes. Some signs to look out for include:

1. Difficulty performing activities of daily living – One of the easiest things to notice is if your family member is struggling with things like dressing, bathing, walking or eating. If you spend even a few hours together, you might see some signs they are neglecting their hygiene, which could be a sign they need a higher level of care.
2. Changes in behavior – If you spend a lot of time with your parents, you’re probably familiar with their typical behaviors. If you start to notice significant changes in how they act, it could be a red flag. Pay attention to things like losing interest in hobbies, difficulty keeping track of time, showing a lack of motivation, or changes in mood or sleep patterns. These behavioral changes could indicate that you need to consider assisted living.
3. Changes in physical appearance – While it’s easy to ignore changes in physical appearance when you see your loved ones often, it’s important to note any unexplained weight loss, bruises, wounds or poor hygiene. All of these things could be signs your aging parent needs more support with the activities associated with daily living.
4. Neglecting responsibilities – When it comes to signs an aging parent needs assisted living, neglecting responsibilities is a big one. Managing a household can be difficult for aging family members. When you start to notice signs of hoarding, unopened mail, unpaid bills, or spoiled food piling up, it could be signs of a bigger problem.
5. Changes in memory – While age-related memory decline is a typical part of aging when it becomes an issue, it’s important to meet with a physician. Pay attention to any forgetfulness, increased confusion, repetitive speech patterns, loss of reasoning and poor judgment.

Talking to Your Loved One About Senior Living Communities

It’s never easy to talk to your aging parents about the idea of assisted living. However, it’s a meaningful conversation to have if you notice signs of decline. Focus your discussions on how senior living communities are designed to help seniors stay active and independent for longer while getting the daily support they need.

Signature Pointe is designed to provide just the right level of care to ensure residents thrive. Signature Pointe’s assisted living neighborhood is specifically designed to help residents achieve the ideals of a healthy body, inspired mind and awakened spirit.

Assisted Living That Feels Like Home at Signature Pointe in Dallas, TX

Imagine the feeling of home your parents enjoy now, but with new friends and helpful support right outside their door. Our staff and residents have the opportunity to build relationships of care and compassion through everything our assisted living community has to offer. You and your parents can count on these services and more when choosing Signature Pointe.

As soon as you notice signs your aging parent might need assisted living care, we encourage you to schedule a visit to our senior living community in Dallas, Texas. Contact us to learn more.