No matter how independent, self-sufficient or “happy at home” a parent may be, the question of “what if” often lingers on adult children’s minds. Senior living is not an easy subject to raise but as you gather this holiday season, if you see one or more of the signs below, it may be time for an honest, open discussion about current and future care needs.

You’ll be thankful you did. With knowledge of individual needs and your loved one’s “must haves,” you’ll be better prepared to explore senior living options available. At MBK Senior Living communities, our dedicated team members have helped thousands of families navigate this discussion and determine next steps that give the whole family greater peace of mind!

Social Isolation

How does your loved one fill their day? Are they more withdrawn?

These are also signs of early depression

Changes in Sleeping Habits

• Sleeping too much. Possible causes: from medication,
• lack of stimulation
• Low energy
• Sleeping at the wrong time of day

Concerned Neighbors

• Noticing behaviors
• Forgetting to bring the trash in, etc.

Food

• Fear of going grocery shopping
• Do they appear to be losing weight?

Falling

• Is your loved one falling, and no one is available to help?
• Identify the source: Are they not exercising so muscles are atrophying?

Appearance

• Does your loved one appear disheveled, lack of grooming, etc?
• Does your loved one appear different (hair, not shaving, stains on clothes)?

Cleanliness

• Have you noticed the state of the house is not normal (cleaning is piled up, messy, etc.)?

Medications

• Are medications being stored correctly?
• Are they taking the proper dosage?
• Changes in sleeping behavior

Decision Making

• Lack of safety awareness (left candles on, left stove on, let in strangers, falling for phone scams)
• Diminished safety-awareness

Driving

• Is your loved one getting lost while driving, losing the keys, recent accidents?
• Fear of driving

Depression & Anxiety

• Ask physician for a depression screening.

• There are things beyond medication that can help such as social interaction and medication management.

• Does your loved one appear to be happy?
• Watch for signs such as:
  • Loneliness
  • Change in sleep pattern
  • Increased online shopping
  • Lack of appetite / change in eating habits
  • Taking frequent showers and baths (feeling of warmth and comfort)

Still undecided on your next step? Let us help. Take our self-assessment to see if you’re being wise and well in your role as a caregiver. After all, you matter and your needs are important too! All too often when caring for others needs, our own needs take a back-seat. But, caregivers are most effective when they are well-informed, practicing self-care and aware of when it’s time for more help.

If that’s you, and you’re ready to take the next step – we’re ready to help! With 34 MBK Senior Living communities throughout the Western United States, your choices are plentiful! We’re sure we can help you find just the community to meet your needs and inspire your days!

Click here to take the Wise & Well self-assessment.