Let’s face it—watching your parents age isn’t easy, especially when you start noticing they’re struggling to take care of themselves. I know many of us wrestle with the question: “Is it time for assisted living?” While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, there are some telltale signs that your parent might need more support than either of you can handle at home.
Physical Changes and Health Concerns
You might first notice physical changes. Has your mom or dad had a few falls lately? That’s often a red flag. And what about their weight—have you noticed their clothes looking baggy or maybe too tight? These changes can mean they’re having trouble preparing meals or dealing with health issues.
If your parent has chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease that seem to be getting worse, that’s worth paying attention to. And medication mix-ups? Those can be downright dangerous. If they’re confused about which pills to take when or forgetting them altogether, it might be time for assisted living at Brooking Park.
Daily Living Challenges
Take a good look around their home next time you visit. Is the place that was always spotless now cluttered with dishes piling up and dust bunnies in corners? Are bills sitting unopened? These are pretty clear signs they’re feeling overwhelmed by everyday tasks.
Personal hygiene changes can be particularly telling. If your always-put-together father is now wearing the same clothes for days or your mother’s hair hasn’t been washed in weeks, they’re likely struggling with self-care routines many of us take for granted.
Cognitive and Emotional Signs
We all forget things, but there’s normal forgetfulness and then there’s concerning memory loss. If your parent gets lost driving to the grocery store they’ve visited for years or asks you the same question three times in one conversation, that suggests they might need more supervision than you can provide.
Have you noticed your once-social parent dropping out of church groups or giving up beloved hobbies? Or maybe they seem sadder, more anxious, or unusually irritable? These emotional and social changes often improve when seniors move to communities where they have both support and companionship.
Caregiver Strain
Don’t forget to check in with yourself, too. Are you exhausted from running between your home and theirs? Missing your kids’ events because you’re helping your parent? When caregiving starts taking a serious toll on your life, that’s a sign the current arrangement isn’t sustainable.
The financial reality matters, too. Between medical supplies, home modifications, and maybe cutting back your work hours, caring for a parent at home can sometimes cost more than a good assisted living facility.
Safety Concerns
Nothing gets our attention faster than safety issues. If you’ve gotten late-night calls from the ER or neighbors have found your parent wandering the neighborhood confused, these aren’t situations to brush off. And a kitchen with burned pots or a refrigerator full of expired food? Those are serious red flags.
Finding the Right Balance
Moving a parent to assisted living isn’t about shipping them off or giving up—it’s about getting them the right care. Today’s facilities often feel more like communities where residents maintain independence while getting help with what they need.
Try to start these conversations early, before a crisis forces your hand. And whenever possible, involve your parent in the decision. After all, it’s their life we’re talking about.
Remember, recognizing when more help is needed isn’t failing your parent—it’s often the most loving choice you can make for their safety, health, and happiness in their later years.
