Thanksgiving is just around the corner, signaling the start of the holiday season! This special time of year brings comfort, cheer, and the chance to reconnect with loved ones. For many, it’s also an opportunity to spend quality time with family we don’t see often amid the hustle and bustle of daily life.
If you live far from a loved one who is still living independently, the holiday also represent the chance to visit and ensure they’re thriving in their home.
Is it Time to Start the Conversation about the Benefits of a Retirement Community?
While you’re visiting your aging loved ones this holiday season, take note of signs that suggest they may need help with daily activities, or that their health may be changing.
If you aren’t sure if your loved one is really maintaining the highest quality of life possible, here are a few things to take notice of as you visit over the holidays:
- Physical Health & Weight Changes. As you give your loved one a big hug, take note of how slender he or she may be. It’s common for seniors to experience a loss of appetite due to changes in their health, medication side effects, or even because they simply no longer enjoy cooking for just one person. Check the refrigerator and cupboards to make sure they are stocked with healthy, fresh options. Maintaining a proper diet is vital, so if you notice a significant weight loss, talk to a doctor about your concerns.
- Social Isolation and Emotional Well-Being. Inquire about friends and neighbors to learn how often they are seeing and meeting up with them to find out if they may be isolated socially. Loneliness can easily lead to emotional concerns like depression. Also, watch for signs of withdrawal from family activities, friends, or sudden changes in mood or personality.
- Home Environment. Take note of how your loved one is getting around the house. If rooms are not well-maintained when they have always taken pride in their homes, this could be a sign they are having trouble moving about and keeping up with daily household tasks. Plus, if they seem unsteady on their feet, this could lead to a debilitating fall or accident.
- Memory Concerns. While it’s normal for seniors to become forgetful or experience those “senior moments,” if you’re finding items in strange places or stacks of bills that haven’t been paid, these are signs that the memory loss may be a more serious concern.
- Neighborly Insights. If possible, take a few minutes to talk to neighbors or nearby friends. They may be able to provide some valuable insight into the overall health and wellness of your loved one. For instance, they may notice they aren’t leaving the house often or haven’t been taking out the trash regularly.
If you notice these signs, consider gently introducing the idea of senior living options, in a community setting. Although discussing retirement communities can be a sensitive topic, it’s important to have these conversations while your love one is able to actively participate. Talking about future needs early, including any related financial or legal matters, can prevent stress during a potential health crisis and ensure their preferences are respected. Moving to a retirement community can provide your loved one with the support they need while maintaining their independence. In addition, a community setting offers opportunities for social interaction, activities that promote overall wellness, and convenient services that ease the demands of daily life.
Discover the Warmth of Silver Maples of Chelsea
At Silver Maples, we provide a welcoming environment designed to enhance the quality of life for older adults. Our award-winning community offers a variety of living options and personalized support in all stages of life. From enriching programs to beautifully maintained spaces, every detail is crafted to foster joy, create connections and provide overall wellness; your loved one will find a place to thrive and call home.
Contact us today to learn more about joining our waitlist or get to know us from afar by visiting our website. We’re here to help you and your family find a lifestyle and support system that will meet your current and future needs.
