5 Signs It’s Time for Assisted Living

Assisted living communities provide the safety and lifestyle factors that allow older adults to maintain their independence while receiving supportive services. Assisted living offers the same engagement and enhancement as independent living but for those who need extra assistance with daily tasks or activities.

But how do you know if it’s time for you or someone you love to consider an assisted living community? As an assisted living provider in Franklin, Indiana, Astral at Franklin is sharing signs that could indicate it’s time to consider assisted senior living.

1. Changes in Activities of Daily Living

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) are defined as the essential tasks a person must independently complete in order to safely live on their own, and basic ADLs include:

• Personal Hygiene
• Mobility
• Dressing
• Eating
• Continence

If you or someone you love is unable to complete one or more of the above activities without assistance, it might be time to consider assisted living support. 

Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (iADLs) go a step further, including actions that might not be necessary on a day-to-day basis but are equally important when living alone, including:

• Meal Preparation
• Shopping
• Housework and Maintenance
• Transportation
• Managing Medication 

Often, one or more iADLs can become challenging as a person gets older. For example, natural changes to vision can make it hard to manage medications or finances if the person can no longer read the fine print on labels or forms. 

Astral at Franklin help residents handle or support many iADLs, such as providing on-site dining options so residents don’t have to shop and/or prepare daily meals, medication management and transportation services.

2. Experiencing Social Isolation

Loneliness and isolation are among the most significant mental health problems; according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “nearly one-fourth of adults aged 65 and older are considered to be socially isolated.” 

Older adults are more likely to face factors such as living alone, living at a distance from family and friends, the loss of relatives and close friends and chronic illnesses or age-related changes, like hearing and vision loss, that can make it difficult to stay connected with loved ones. 

It’s important to note that older adults don’t face isolation just by being alone. Instead, isolation is caused by a lack of an outlet or opportunity for meaningful, engaging activities that connect them with those around them.

Assisted living communities provide a wide variety of enrichment activities that help fulfill individual needs for purpose, providing options for residents to discover new hobbies and spend time focusing on important interests.

3. Safety Concerns

It’s been estimated that nearly every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room due to a fall or accident in the home. If you or a loved one has decided to age in place, it’s important to consider any hazards or difficulties you face while navigating the home. Ask yourself the following questions:

• Have you or someone you love experienced a fall?
• Is it challenging to go up and down the stairs?
• Are you or a loved one experiencing changes to mobility? 

If the answer to any of these questions was yes, it may be beneficial to consider assisted living. These communities provide the atmosphere and support to prevent falls, as well as emergency call systems for an immediate response should an accident happen.

4. Home Maintenance Issues

Assisted living communities also provide an ideal opportunity to enjoy the benefits of maintenance-free living. 

Maintenance-free living ensures residents can focus on their daily routines and engagement without worrying about yard work, home repairs or other forms of upkeep. These services keep residents’ living spaces clean and safe while providing a comfortable area.

5. Lack of Purpose

The word “purpose” is defined as “the reason for which something is done or created, or for which something exists.” Part of what makes assisted living in Franklin, Indiana, so special is the personalized amenities put in place to allow residents to find their purpose. Discovering the things that bring passion and joy into your life is the best way to find fulfillment and enjoyment, regardless of age.

Whether it’s reconnecting with old hobbies or discovering new pursuits, Astral at Franklin is always ready to help. 

There is no “right time” for assisted living because every person’s situation is different and personal for them. The goal of these communities is simply to promote comfort, safety and connection. 

If you or someone you love is experiencing challenges with daily tasks, are unable to keep up with the responsibilities of homeownership or are just looking for more opportunities to connect and engage with others, we invite you to discover assisted living in Franklin and schedule your tour of Astral at Franklin today.