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Most people think that something dramatic needs to happen to justify getting their parents more help. For example, having a parent take a hard fall and no longer being able to walk on their own. However, not all signs, or cries for help, are so obvious.
Physical and cognitive decline is usually such a gradual process that you’d need to be closely attuned to your parent’s lifestyle and routines to notice it. Additionally, as you get older and have responsibilities of your own, you may not have the opportunity nor awareness to give them the attention they need to live safely and comfortably.
Common signs that your parents need assisted living:
- needing reminders to take medication, eat, or drink
- noticeable weight loss or gain
- difficulty moving or an increase in falls
- neglect of household maintenance
- inability to perform daily tasks (grooming, preparing meals, etc.)
- increased time in isolation (perhaps following the death of their spouse)
- less interest in beloved hobbies
For dementia patients…
Your parent might require memory-focused assisted living if they display any of the following signs:
- increased aggressive behaviors
- disorientation (becomes lost easily)
- repetition of stories and questions
- speech problems
- difficulty planning, concentrating or organizing
Why an assisted living facility?
Upon discovering that your parent needs extra help, your first instinct might be to care for them yourself. However, no one is ever prepared for how difficult that can be. Juggling your own family, job, and social life does not leave much time for giving your parent the care that they deserve. To better navigate this difficult decision, you may feel more comfortable with the prospect of assisted living with a basic understanding of what it offers.
Assisted living provides long-term housing and care for seniors. Residents of assisted living can expect “personalized care, nutritious meals, a wide range of social activities to cater to a variety of interests, and a sense of community in a safe, residential setting.” For all of the reasons listed above, an assisted living facility could be a good option for you and your parent.
Agents
We hope this information on when your parents need an assisted living facility is helpful to you.
Empower Brokerage is dedicated to helping you educate your clients on the insurance they need and staying on top of their health. Whether it’s through webinar training, one-on-one calls, seminars, or marketing plans. We want you to be successful. Give us a call if you have any questions 888-539-1633.
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Kayla is a graduate of Texas A&M University and joined the marketing team at Empower Brokerage in early 2021. She creates content for the company websites and assists with various marketing campaigns. LinkedIn Profile
