When answering the questions below, keep in mind that there are a multitude of senior communities to choose from—including fully independent living, assisted living, and full nursing care.
 
Has Mobility Recently Declined?
 
Declined mobility can lead to an increased risk for falls, or simply the need for more hands-on assistance. For example, some seniors only need assistance getting in and out of bed each day, or only assistance while bathing.
 
Has Overall Health Recently Declined?
 
If there has been a major decline in health or a slowly progressing decline in health, then daily medications and treatment may be too much to manage solo. Moving into an assisted living facility, often in a private apartment, provides that little bit of extra help.
 
Are Household Chores Too Difficult To Manage?
 
Even fully independent living facilities offer assistance with housekeeping and laundry, which goes a long way in improving quality of life.
 
Are ADLs Being Completed Each Day?
 
If activities of daily living (ADL) are not being performed with ease, then it is time for a change. This goes beyond household chores as mentioned above and includes activities, such as cooking, bathing, grooming, taking medications, and mobility.
 
Is Living Alone Scary?
 
Living alone can become scary after a spouse passes away or even after mobility begins to decline. Moving into a senior community means that safety and security measures are put in place to provide seniors with much needed peace of mind.
 
Are You Feeling Lonely Or Has Socialization Decreased?
 
Some seniors decide to move, not because they need much help, but because they crave more socialization. Even fully independent senior communities have daily activities and scheduled group outings. This not only helps to combat loneliness, but is important for living a fulfilling life in retirement.
 
Are You No Longer Able To Drive?
 
Losing the ability to drive is often directly related to a senior’s level of independence. Don’t forget to explore options, such as public transportation, Uber, private caregivers for outings, and transportation solutions designed specifically for seniors.
 
Is It Still Safe To Live At Home?
 
There are many factors that can contribute to it no longer being safe to live at home. This includes the neighborhood no longer being as safe to live, an increased fall risk, a decline in health, or a decline in memory.
 
The questions above will help you to determine if it is time to move or if it is time to encourage your loved one to move. Keep in mind that moving in with family or having a caregiver come daily or weekly may be able to address many of the concerns below.