One of the most challenging decisions a family may face is when a loved one is no longer safe to live alone. This situation confronts our seniors nearly every day, and identifying when is the right time to make these decisions is usually the first hurdle in getting our seniors the care they need. Seniors may no longer be safe at home for a variety of reasons, including memory loss, increased fall risks, transportation needs, malnourishment and even depression due to lack of socialization.
It’s important to explore available options early before needing to make a move rather than waiting until a crisis occurs. All too often families are in denial, and it isn’t until an injury or other serious event occurs before a decision is reached to make a change in the living situation. Looking at options early affords the senior a voice in their future home as opposed to during a crisis when they may be dependent on others to make those decisions for them – and for those making the decisions, heightened emotions and additional time burdens amidst a crisis make it even more challenging.
Assisted living facilities offer a wide range of benefits to seniors, including a sense of security knowing they are not alone if they need help in the middle of the night. Meals are provided to ensure balanced nutrition, and, often, local transportation is included in the services as well. Finally, the increased socialization of living in a congregate community is of tremendous benefit to seniors that may have been isolated and lonely prior to relocating.
Don’t wait until it’s too late and the senior is suddenly in crisis mode; delaying only leads to increasing unnecessary risks. Ask any assisted living community and the staff will share that seniors are reluctant to initially move, but once they have relocated into an assisted living setting, the most frequent comment from the senior is, “I wish I had done this sooner.”
For additional information on the range of care services available to seniors, stop by Pacifica Senior Living in Santa Clarita at 24305 W Lyons Avenue, or visit www.pacificasantaclarita.com . You can also call 661-255-3100 or e-mail santaclaritamkg@islllc.com for more details.