As we age, our care needs may change, requiring additional support in the home or an alternative living option like assisted living. Knowing the warning signs can help prevent injury, further decline, or a decrease in quality of life.
This blog from Frontida Assisted Living shares seven signs to watch for when seniors live at home.
7 warning signs for seniors living at home
#1: Lack of socialization
Does your loved one spend most days alone or watching TV? Older adults can be particularly vulnerable to social isolation and depression, partly due to transportation challenges and mobility issues.
An assisted living community like Frontida offers numerous opportunities for enrichment, socialization, lifelong learning, and new friendships. Residents enjoy many on-site conveniences, such as transportation services, fitness classes, art supplies, and more.
#2: Neglecting personal care
Is your loved one struggling to maintain their physical appearance or wash and care for their clothing and linens? Housework and laundry can become too physically demanding for seniors, and supportive services may be necessary.
Assisted living communities generally provide both housekeeping and laundry services and assistance with bathing, grooming, and getting dressed.
Take a quiz >> Is it the right time for senior living?
#3: Overlooking nutritional needs
Balanced diets are essential as we age and can help prevent chronic health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease. Is your loved one eating nutritious meals each day? Do they have access to fresh fruits, vegetables, and other healthy foods?
Frontida Assisted Living prepares delicious and nutritious home-cooked meals and snacks daily for residents in all its Wisconsin communities.
#4: Forgetting medication
Taking medication on time and appropriately is vital to an older adult’s health and well-being. Is your loved one frequently forgetting to take medication or taking the incorrect amount? Medication mismanagement can be dangerous, so finding a solution is important.
An assisted living community like Frontida can help manage your loved one’s medications, ensuring they take the correct dose at the right time.
How do I know the right time for senior living and care?
#5: Increased falls
Has your loved one fallen in their home on more than one occasion? Falls can indicate an underlying medical condition, like low blood pressure, vision loss, or medication side effects. There may also be safety hazards around the home that place your loved one at higher risk for falls.
Assisted living communities focus on safety and fall prevention by installing grab bars, building one-story residences, and reducing trip hazards around the community. Nursing staff can also intervene when a resident is at high risk of falls by recommending a plan of care that promotes their safety and lowers their risk of falls and injuries.
#6: Wandering
Cognitive decline can be a sign of Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia and can sometimes cause wandering. Is your loved one getting confused about the layout of their own home? Do they return later than expected from a walk or errand? Have they mentioned forgetting how to get somewhere they’ve been multiple times before?
Wandering frequently can be a safety risk for your loved one. Specially designed memory care communities provide a secure environment where your loved one can thrive among peers with support from a trained interdisciplinary team in a structured, safe place.
Take a quiz >> Is it the right time for memory care?
#7: Cognitive changes
Like wandering, your loved one may exhibit other signs of confusion or cognitive changes. For example, paying the same bill twice or having trouble balancing a checkbook can be signs of early impairment. Other signs include mood or personality changes and consistent forgetfulness that alters your loved one’s habits or abilities.
An assisted living or memory care community can be an option for seniors experiencing cognitive changes. Both types of communities, similar to locations at Frontida Assisted Living, ensure 24-hour personal care and supervision, individualized care plans, and nursing staff to oversee each resident’s health and wellness.
Explore life at Frontida Assisted Living >>
Making a plan for the future
If you notice any of these warning signs, take the next step and set up tours of a few assisted living communities. Be prepared with a list of questions to better understand how your loved one’s needs and preferences can be met. Ask about costs, availability, and care level options. Getting a plan in place for your loved one’s future care needs can provide peace of mind and the assurance that they’re living their most fulfilled life.
Feel at Home at Frontida Assisted Living
Frontida Assisted Living values transparency and trust in each of our Wisconsin communities, and our team is ready to answer your questions, offer support, and provide resources to help you make a confident and informed decision for your future care.
Our compassionate team strives to create a sense of community and purpose for each resident through personalized programming, life-enriching activities, and special events.
Learn how we care for our residents:
- Private suites, bedrooms, and companion rooms
- Fully accessible bathrooms
- Spacious living rooms and engaging indoor recreation areas
- Cozy fireplaces and open-plan seating in living spaces
- Beautifully maintained outdoor areas
- Delicious, home-cooked meals and snacks
- 24-hour personal care and supervision
- Comfortable spa and salon (in specific locations)
- Dedicated memory care communities
- Specialized behavioral health care communities
- Housekeeping and laundry services
- Individualized care plans
- Life Enrichment Coordinators to plan and schedule meaningful activities for all residents
- Nursing staff to oversee the health and wellness of each resident
We value honesty, trust, and open communication to build relationships with our residents and their loved ones. Together, we form a partnership to ensure your loved one lives a fulfilling life, feeling a sense of belonging and purpose.
When you’re ready, contact any of our 11 Frontida assisted living and memory care communities to gather more information, or to set up a personalized tour. We’re here for you whenever you need us.
We understand that transitioning into assisted care can be an emotional, stressful and often confusing journey. That’s why we’re dedicated to helping you and your family navigate the complex world of care. Download our free “Guide to Funding Senior Living” to learn more.