Five Signs That an Elderly Loved One Might Need Assisted Living

Most families eventually have to deal with the difficult situation of whether an elderly relative can cope living alone and if they require more support than the family can provide. Whilst many people in the later years of their lives carry on living independently well into their 90s, others require assisted living in their 80s or even their 70s or 60s. 

Whilst the inevitable demobilising effects of age creep up on us at different times, there are certain signs that an elderly person can no longer cope with living on their own.

Forgetfulness

Whilst we can all be forgetful from time to time, particularly as we get older, if it is proving to be problematic in the sense that it is dangerous to your loved one or others; it may be time to start making decisions about retirement properties. 

Classic signs of forgetfulness that border on the potentially harmful side amongst elderly people include leaving a hob on in the kitchen, leaving a tap running, placing an electrical appliance close to water or leaving food that should be refrigerated out on the counter.

Unable to wash/dress

Naturally when we are in our 70s, 80s and 90s we will not be as agile as when we are in our 20s and 30s and everyday acts such as getting washed and dressed become significantly more difficult than they once were.

One sign that an elderly person requires assisted living is if they are unable to wash or dress themselves properly. You will be able to notice things like your loved one wearing odd socks or having their jumper on back to front easily but if these instances occur rarely then there may not be any cause for concern. However, should this become a regular habit then you may need to investigate the cause and take appropriate action.

Chores unfinished

We are all entitled to leave the washing up piling up on the worktop every now and then but if you notice that your relative’s household chores are rarely being done it might be time to start looking for alternative places for them to live. 

Retirement homes, such as those from McCarthy & Stone, provide assisted living houses and flats that offer an alternative place to live without demoralising elderly residents by removing their freedom. Providing a refreshing balance of support with independence, they offer help as and when needed but do not interfere with your relatives’ way of life unnecessarily.