Making the decision as a family to move an elderly family member into a care facility is never easy. It’s normal to have mixed feelings about it. You might feel guilty, sad, or worried. But sometimes, a care facility is the best way to keep our loved ones safe and healthy. Here are some signs that it might be time to consider this option:
Safety Concerns at Home
Watch out for signs that your loved one isn’t safe living alone anymore. Have they fallen more than once recently? Do they forget to turn off the stove or leave doors unlocked? These could be signs that they need more supervision than you can provide at home.
Trouble with Daily Tasks
If your family member is having a hard time with everyday activities, it might be time for more help. Look for things like:
- Not bathing or changing clothes regularly
- Forgetting to take important medicines
- Having trouble preparing meals or eating properly
- Neglecting housework or yard work they used to do easily
Memory Problems Getting Worse
Some forgetfulness is normal as we age, but if your loved one’s memory issues are getting worse, pay attention. Are they getting lost in familiar places? Do they forget important appointments or family events? These could be signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, which often need professional care.
Caregiver Stress
Think about how you’re feeling, too. Caring for an elderly family member can be exhausting, both physically and emotionally. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or your own health is suffering, it might be time to consider other options. Remember, taking care of yourself is important too.
Medical Needs Increasing
If your loved one’s health problems are getting more serious or complicated, they might need more care than you can give at home. This is especially true if they need help with things like managing multiple medications, wound care, or using medical equipment.
Social Isolation
Loneliness can be a big problem for older adults. If your family member is spending most of their time alone and seems unhappy or depressed, a care facility could provide more social interaction and activities.
Money or Legal Troubles
Sometimes, older adults start having problems managing their finances. They might forget to pay bills, fall for scams, or make poor financial decisions. These can be signs that they need more support and supervision.
What to Do Next
If you’re noticing several of these signs, it might be time to talk with your family and your loved one’s doctor. Remember, every situation is different. What’s right for one family might not be right for another.
It’s also a good idea to get advice from professionals who understand elder care. An elder law attorney can help you understand your options, including how to pay for care and what legal steps you might need to take. Even though facility care is very expensive, there are public benefits available to help pay for the care, meaning that your elderly loved one does not have to go broke before they can get help, and you will not be required to pay for your parents’ care.
Moving to a care facility doesn’t mean you’re abandoning your loved one. Instead, think of it as a way to make sure they’re getting the best care possible. Many older adults find that they enjoy the social life and structured activities in these facilities once they adjust.
Remember, making this decision out of love and concern for your family member’s wellbeing is nothing to feel guilty about. It’s okay to ask for help when you need it. The goal is to ensure your loved one is safe, healthy, and as happy as possible.
