Is It Time for Assisted Living in Iowa City?
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Deciding to explore assisted living options for yourself or someone you love is a personal journey that requires care and understanding. It’s completely natural to experience a wide array of emotions during this period, but remember that you are not alone. Many individuals and families encounter similar crossroads when exploring senior care options.
As an assisted living community in Iowa City, FeatherStone at Hickory Hill creates a safe and supportive setting that allows residents to thrive. Iowa City boasts a vibrant community with beautiful parks, a variety of dining options and engaging recreational programs, making it an ideal location for older adults.
Below, our team helps you assess whether it’s the right time to move into an assisted living community.
5 Signs Additional Support May Be Needed
1. Decreased Ability to Perform Daily Life Tasks
One of the earliest signs that an individual might benefit from assisted living is a noticeable decrease in their ability to perform essential tasks. These tasks can include dressing, bathing, cooking and/or maintaining their home. When these activities become challenging, it often means that additional support is needed to maintain their independence and lifestyle.
2. Frequent Falls or Accidents
Frequent falls or accidents can be alarming indicators of declining physical health. These incidents may result from balance issues, weakened muscles, or vision impairments. They not only pose immediate physical risks but can also lead to long-term complications.
3. Noticeable Changes in Personal Hygiene
If an older adult begins to neglect bathing, wearing clean clothes or maintaining their appearance, it may be due to physical limitations or cognitive decline. Assisted living can offer daily support with grooming and hygiene, relieving stress for both the individual and their family members while promoting a sense of pride and well-being.
4. Difficulty Managing Medications
Managing medications can become increasingly complex as individuals age, particularly if they are prescribed multiple medications. Forgetting doses or taking incorrect amounts can have serious health implications. Our Iowa City assisted living community supports residents with their medication management, ensuring they take their medications correctly and on time.
5. Isolation and Loneliness
Social isolation and loneliness are significant concerns among older adults, impacting both mental and physical health. A lack of social interaction can lead to depression and anxiety. At FeatherStone at Hickory Hill, we foster a sense of belonging, offering numerous programs and social opportunities that encourage connection and engagement. Residents can participate in group classes, engaging events and communal dining experiences to forge new friendships, which contribute to their overall happiness and vitality.
Is It Time for Assisted Living? A 10-Question Test
To help older adults or their families assess whether it’s time to consider assisted living in Iowa City, we’ve developed a quick 10-question test. This assessment tool provides a structured approach to evaluating your needs or a family member’s needs and identifying any areas where additional support may be beneficial.
- Have you or a loved one experienced recent falls or balance issues?
- Are daily life tasks like cooking and cleaning becoming challenging?
- Have you noticed a decline in personal grooming and hygiene?
- Do you or a loved one often forget to take medications or take them incorrectly?
- Do you or a loved one experience or express feelings of loneliness or isolation?
- Are you or a loved one able to manage finances independently?
- Do you or a loved one have difficulty navigating their home safely?
- Are you or a loved one experiencing memory problems or cognitive decline?
- Can you or a loved one prepare meals and maintain proper nutrition?
- Are you or a loved one able to participate in social events and maintain friendships?
If you answered “yes” to several of these questions, it might be time to explore our assisted living services. This could provide the support and engagement you or someone you love needs to thrive.
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Recognizing the signs that indicate a need for assisted living is essential for ensuring health, safety and happiness. If you’re considering this transition, we encourage you to reach out to our senior living team and explore life at FeatherStone at Hickory Hill.