Making the decision to move a loved one into a senior living facility can be overwhelming, especially if you’ve never faced this type of situation before. With so much at stake, it can be difficult to stay confident in your decision. You might worry that you’re acting too quickly or have overlooked something important.
It’s not unusual to question your decision during this process. If you’re feeling uncertain, here are three signs to know that you’re making the right choice:
1. You’ve recognized a problem
Maybe you’ve noticed your father has difficulty climbing stairs and the short walk to the mailbox has become more challenging for him. Perhaps there’s been a fall or two—nothing too serious—and you’re worried it may happen again.
Or maybe you’ve seen your mother’s grooming habits suddenly decline, and she’s finding it difficult to dress herself the way she used to. Because of this change, she is leaving the house less often and starting to isolate herself. She’s forgetting names and no longer answers the phone when you call.
Each of the cases above point to the same reality: your loved one would greatly benefit from additional care and support. That’s why you’re here right now.
These issues will not work themselves out, so it’s time to find a place that makes your loved one feel at home. A senior living facility will provide security and support for your loved one, while giving you the peace of mind you need.
2. You’ve had the talk
You’ve expressed your concerns about your loved one living at home alone, such as what will happen if Mom falls and who will remind Dad to take his medication. You’ve had the conversation about finding solutions for your loved one’s problems. In turn, your loved one shared worries or hesitations about moving, selling the house, or being a burden on the family.
Don’t forget, you’re a team. Work together with your loved one to keep the conversations active and constructive. Now is the time to stay true to those plans and follow through with a positive solution.
3. You’ve evaluated options
Through this process, you’ve looked at different types of programs. You understand the differences between senior living and a nursing home, you know the importance of aging in place and you’ve looked at communities that provide advanced memory care.
Remember why you chose the facility you did. You not only considered financial needs, but also evaluated the events calendars, dining options, and enrichment programs. You’ve considered apartment types, staffing requirements, and medical needs.
It may feel like you’re alone in this decision because family members who were more engaged before are less active now that actions need to be done. Or maybe your parent has become increasingly nervous or worried about the process.
Surround yourself with people you can lean on for support. After all, many families have been through very similar, if not the same, experiences you’re going through. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the communities you’re considering. They are experts in handling this challenging and transitional time. Finally, trust your gut and get your loved one the care and support they deserve.