How do you decide if it’s time for Long-Term Care?

Here are some key factors to look for when determining if you or a loved one needs Long-Term Care:

• Physical Signs
  Changes in weight, strength, energy, and balance can be dangerous to a senior, especially if he or she is living alone. This can also complicate actions like dressing and eating. The nursing aids residents with these actions in long-term care.
• Increasing Difficulty Managing Daily Activities
  With age, daily activities can be harder to manage. Some of the daily activities that we often do without thinking – to an elder person, might be more difficult than before. If you suspect your loved one is having increased difficulty with any of the following, expressing your concern is important.
  • Dressing
  • Bathing
  • Shopping
  • Laundry
  • Medication Management
  • Cleaning

• Mental Signs
  Memory loss or confusion could be signs of dementia and should not be ignored. If a senior is continually having trouble with memory, this can turn into a safety issue. Additionally, confusion about names, dates, and places that were once common can be frustrating and demoralizing.
  • Inability to use the bathroom or shower and forgetting to brush their teeth are detrimental to health and are other signs that they need long-term care.
  • If the house is in disarray or if things are strangely out of place, then this might signal that long-term care is required.