The holiday season brings families together, offering a perfect opportunity to catch up and share warm moments. However, it’s also an ideal time to assess the health and well-being of your parent or family member. As you gather with your family members, take a moment to observe their living situation.
Sometimes, the holiday visit can reveal subtle signs it’s time for assisted living and changes that indicate your relative might need additional support to ensure their safety. Engaging in this review not only demonstrates a practical concern for their safety but also opens avenues for meaningful conversations about their needs and preferences, reinforcing emotional bonds. Ultimately, this thoughtful approach helps create a joyful and worry-free holiday experience.
Our team at Ciel Senior Living guides you through what to look for in a family member’s home this holiday season to help you assess the situation.
Signs to Look For & Consider
Attention to the Finer Things
You’re likely to have a well-established mental image of what your family member’s home typically looks like during the holidays. Anomalies or changes in this can be the first signs it’s time for assisted living.
Notice the level of holiday decorations in their home. If they’ve previously enjoyed elaborate Christmas lights and festive decor but this year seems more subdued, question why.
Perhaps they found the task of decoration too demanding this year. Also, keep an eye out for non-holiday aspects. Accumulated clutter around the home, an unkempt yard, a home that’s not as clean as usual, or an excess of unopened mail could all be minor but significant signs that they may need additional support, such as senior assisted living.
The holiday season is always hectic, and our homes usually reflect this. However, you know what your family members’ homes typically look like and can determine the difference between holiday chaos and general clutter.
Appearances Can Be Telling
Although changes over time are expected, subtle shifts in personal grooming and cleanliness habits might reveal more than meets the eye. Are they well-groomed, or do they appear disheveled? Additionally, pay attention to their clothes—are they clean and appropriate for the season? Neglecting personal hygiene can indicate that daily tasks are becoming too challenging.
Pay Attention to Mobility and Physical Health
Take note of any changes in mobility. Are they having trouble moving around the house or getting up from a chair? Look for bruises or injuries that might indicate falls. Difficulty with mobility can significantly impact their safety and independence, making it a strong indicator for considering senior assisted living.
Has your family member gained or lost weight? Significant or unexplained weight loss or gain can also indicate underlying health issues or malnutrition. For example, it could be due to individuals having difficulty grocery shopping, cooking, or managing their diet effectively.
Observe Cognitive and Emotional Well-Being
Monitor their cognitive and emotional state. Are they forgetful, confused, or having trouble following conversations? Emotional signs like withdrawal, depression, or sudden mood swings can also suggest that they need more support. Cognitive decline can be subtle but is a crucial sign it’s time for assisted living or memory care.
Personality is Key
Living alone may equate to independence for many, but it also imposes severe limitations, particularly with social engagement opportunities for older adults. A significant tell-tale sign can be sudden personality or behavioral changes, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Such emotions, if not addressed, can result in serious physical and mental conditions, including high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, weakened immunity, anxiety, depression, cognitive decline, and even Alzheimer’s disease.
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Family health and well-being should always be a priority, especially during the holiday season. By observing your relatives and their homes, you can make informed decisions that enhance their health and safety.
If you notice signs it’s time for assisted living, remember that you are not alone. Many families face these decisions, and numerous resources are available to support you. Prioritize their health, engage in meaningful conversations, and take the necessary steps to ensure their safety and happiness.
Our Ciel Senior Living communities offer personalized support and outstanding amenities and conveniences to help each individual thrive. For more information about our senior assisted living communities, we invite you to visit our website or contact a member of our Ciel Senior Living team.