7 Signs It’s Time for Assisted Living During Your Holiday Visit
| Blog
The holiday season is a time of joy, togetherness, and reflection. Families gather to celebrate and create cherished memories, but it’s also an opportunity to take a closer look at the well-being of our parents and family members. For adult children visiting aging parents, the holidays can reveal more than just festive cheer. They may highlight signs that it’s time to consider assisted living.
Below, FeatherStone at Hickory Hill explores some of the signs to be aware of when visiting your parents’ home this holiday season and how our assisted living neighborhood in Iowa City can enhance their health and safety.
1. Poor Personal Hygiene
The importance of personal care cannot be overstated, as it directly impacts an individual’s health and self-esteem. When visiting your family members this holiday season, take note of their appearance.
Unkempt hair or changes to personal hygiene habits can be subtle clues that your family member is unable to maintain their hygiene routine. This decline may signal physical limitations or cognitive challenges, suggesting that they need more support than they currently have at home.
2. Financial Management Issues
Managing finances is a responsibility that often becomes more challenging with age. If you notice stacks of unopened mail or overdue notices, this could indicate that your parent is having trouble keeping up with financial tasks. This can lead to stress and anxiety, worsening the situation. Such signs should prompt a conversation about whether moving into an assisted living community like ours in Iowa City could provide the necessary support.
3. Struggles with Housekeeping
Dirty dishes piling up and laundry left undone are additional signs that your family member may be overwhelmed by housekeeping tasks. A messy home setting not only affects a person’s physical health but can also impact mental wellbeing. The strain of trying to maintain a clean home without adequate help can lead to frustration and exhaustion, affecting their overall lifestyle.
4. Changes in Mood or Behavior
Changes in mood or behavior are also significant indicators that something might be amiss. If your normally cheerful and social parent has become withdrawn, irritable or noticeably different in mood, it could be a sign of deeper issues.
Emotional and psychological wellbeing is crucial for a happy and fulfilling life. Sudden changes in behavior may indicate loneliness, depression or other mental health concerns that require more attention.
5. Physical Safety Concerns
Unexplained bruises or injuries can be distressing to notice. They may suggest that your parent is experiencing falls or facing challenges navigating their home. Their physical safety should be a top priority, and living alone may not provide the environment they need.
At FeatherStone at Hickory Hill, we provide a setting with architectural and furniture adaptations, and team members are available 24/7 to ensure residents’ safety and prevent falls or accidents.
6. Nutritional Challenges
Nutritious meals are vital for maintaining health, but if your parent is unable to shop or cook effectively, they may resort to eating unhealthy foods. This can lead to malnutrition and health complications.
In our assisted living community in Iowa City, we pride ourselves in providing an unparalleled dining experience with nutritious meals tailored to dietary needs, ensuring that residents receive the nourishment they require.
7. Social Isolation
Finally, social isolation can have a profound impact on an older adult’s wellbeing. Loneliness and a lack of social interaction can lead to depression and decreased physical health. If your parent is becoming more isolated, an assisted living setting like FeatherStone at Hickory Hill could provide the social engagement they crave. Our community offers a range of programs and opportunities to form new friendships, which can significantly enhance residents’ lifestyles.
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Recognizing these signs during the holidays is crucial for ensuring the wellbeing of your parent or family member. While these observations can be difficult to confront, they provide an opportunity to make informed decisions about health and care. Our assisted living community in Iowa City offers comprehensive support that addresses these concerns, providing a safe and nurturing setting where your relative can thrive.
If these signs sound familiar, consider reaching out to our team at FeatherStone at Hickory Hill to explore options for your family member’s future. The transition to assisted living can be a positive step towards improving their quality of life, offering both the care they need and the independence they cherish.
