One of the hardest conversations for loved ones to have with senior family members is about the need to transition from independent living to the more structured environment of assisted living. While it's ideal to have the discussion before the need becomes apparent, it doesn't always work that way. There are signs, however, that may signal when it's time to discuss options and start looking for the best long-term care plan for your loved one.

Assured Assisted Living shares a few things you need to consider when having discussions about long-term care.

Struggles with Daily Activities

If your loved one is having difficulties performing the activities of daily living, such as bathing, attending to personal hygiene, or getting dressed and feeding themselves, it's a sign they may need an increased degree of help. Other signs of decline to be aware of include memory loss or confusion, reduced mobility, poor balance, frequent falls, or injuries they don't recall inflicting. Difficulty with medication management or financial management can also signal a need for intervention. US News and World Report suggests that anxiety, mood disorders, and social isolation are other factors that may precipitate a move to a structured living environment.

Having the Talk

Many seniors resist the conversation about moving out of their homes. They may feel a loss of independence, or that it's representative of the final stages of life. These can be sad and even frightening feelings, and it's important to approach the topic in an understanding and respectful way. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, seniors can be prone to depressive episodes, and care should be given to recognize the signs. Listen to the fears and concerns and try to convey the message that your goal is to help find a safe and welcoming environment that best meets the short- and long-term needs of your loved one.

Considering Your Options

There is a wide range of choices when it comes to stepping up the level of care your loved one receives. If someone has sustained an injury or is recovering from surgery or an extended hospital stay, they may need the care of a rehabilitation facility. This is usually short-term. Independent living facilities allow for greater autonomy, with residents often residing in private apartments or rooms with limited outside assistance, paired with the opportunity for medical care, social activities, and other amenities.

Nursing homes offer a greater degree of care, such as help with bathing, personal hygiene, and medicine management. Some facilities offer tiered levels of care in the same space, so your loved one can transition as necessary in the same location. When searching for living arrangements around the Denver area, note that Assured Senior Living offers 16 different residential options to choose from.

Paying For Long-term Care

Various forms of care come with different price structures, many predicated on where they are located and the type of amenities and options they provide. Long-term care insurance may cover some costs, but consider helping your loved one liquidate assets by selling their home to fund their new residence. Start by using an online home appraisal tool to get you a rough idea of what the home is worth, then compare your loved one’s home to other homes in the area. A licensed real estate professional can help with this effort. In light of coronavirus restrictions, regular listings can be augmented with virtual tours, video consultations, and socially distanced open houses.

Making the decision to help a loved one transition to assisted living is a difficult but often necessary part of life. You can help ease the process by doing your research, knowing what to expect, and taking the time to find the right fit for your loved one’s needs.



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