It’s a scenario many families experience: you visited a loved one during the holidays, and something felt different. Maybe it was small at first – a pile of unopened mail, expired food in the refrigerator or more-often-than-normal moments of forgetfulness.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through some common signs someone needs assisted living or memory care, and we’ll explore the options available to ensure their safety, comfort and quality of life.
Signs Someone May Need More Care
Recognizing when a loved one’s health or needs have changed can be difficult, especially if you’re not sure what to look for. Here are a few indicators that may suggest a senior is struggling with their independence.
Difficulty Managing Daily Tasks
Is your loved one finding it harder to keep up with housework, meal preparation or personal hygiene? A once-organized home may now be cluttered, or you may notice they are skipping showers or wearing the same clothes repeatedly.
Unexplained Weight Loss or Poor Nutrition
If your loved one’s fridge is filled with expired food, or they seem thinner than usual, it could be a sign they’re not eating properly. Cooking can become overwhelming, both in the energy and organization it can require. This is especially relevant for seniors with mobility challenges or memory issues.
Changes in Memory or Behavior
Forgetting appointments, missing medications or getting lost in familiar places are red flags. For individuals experiencing cognitive decline, behaviors like increased confusion, irritability, or withdrawal may indicate they aren’t safe alone.
Physical Changes or Safety Concerns
Has your loved one had a recent fall or close call? Look for bruises, cuts, or other unexplained injuries. Falls are a serious yet common risk for seniors as strength, flexibility and balance diminish with age. Even if a fall hasn’t occurred, if you’re worried, it’s time to look for support.
Social Isolation
Seniors who live alone have higher risks of health risks associated with loneliness, including depression and anxiety. If you notice your loved one isn’t staying socially connected, this could signal a decline in mental or emotional well-being.
Signs of Cognitive Decline
Can a person with dementia live alone? This is a common question many families ask. Early-stage dementia can make daily tasks more challenging, and over time, even basic routines will become unsafe. If your loved one is leaving the stove on, forgetting to lock doors, or getting disoriented, it’s time to assess whether they should be alone for extended periods.
Exploring Assisted Living and Memory Care Options
If you’re noticing any of these signs, it’s important to know help is available. Assisted living and memory care communities provide tailored support to ensure that seniors live safely and comfortably.
Assisted Living
For individuals who are struggling to easily complete daily tasks but still want to maintain a sense of independence, assisted living offers the perfect balance. Residents at Montereau receive support with activities of daily living like dressing, bathing, medication management, and meals, all within a vibrant community where they can stay engaged and social.
Memory Care
If your loved one is showing signs of cognitive decline or dementia, memory care offers a specialized environment designed for their safety and well-being. At Montereau, our memory care neighborhood provides a secure, comforting setting with activities and amenities tailored to support cognitive health. With an indoor-outdoor sensory garden, private courtyard, and outings to local Tulsa spots, we create opportunities for meaningful engagement while ensuring residents receive the care they need.
Simple Next Steps
If you’ve noticed changes in a loved one during the holidays, don’t wait to explore your options. Reach out to schedule a tour or learn more about how Montereau’s assisted living and memory care neighborhoods can help your loved one thrive.
At Montereau, we’re here to help you navigate this journey and we’re committed to creating a supportive, welcoming environment for every resident. If you’re asking questions like, “How long can a person with dementia be left alone?” or “What are the signs it’s time for assisted living?”, we’re here to provide the answers you need to make the best decisions for your loved one.