When should you start considering senior care?
We often think of ways to protect ourselves against the unexpected? How about considering ways to prepare for the expected — if we’re fortunate enough to live well into our senior years?
Many families postpone making decisions about ensuring that their loved ones are adequately cared for during their 60s, 70s, 80s and beyond — when individuals are more likely to face health and mobility challenges. It can be difficult to engage in conversations about the need to consider alternative plans.
However, exploring senior care options is an important decision that should be based on the individual's specific needs, health conditions, and overall well-being. There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the right time to start considering senior care varies for each person.
However, several common indicators can help determine when it might be appropriate to start exploring senior care options:
Declining physical health. If the senior experiences a noticeable decline in physical health, struggles with daily activities, or faces difficulties with mobility, it may be time to consider senior care. Difficulty in performing tasks like bathing, dressing, cooking, or managing medications can indicate the need for additional support.
Cognitive impairment. For seniors showing signs of cognitive decline, such as memory loss, confusion, disorientation, or difficulty making decisions, it may be necessary to explore specialized care options that cater to individuals with conditions like Alzheimer's or dementia.
Safety concerns. When the senior's home environment becomes hazardous due to mobility issues or memory problems, it may be time to consider senior care. Frequent accidents, falls, or inability to manage household tasks safely can indicate the need for a safer living arrangement.
Loneliness and isolation. Feelings of loneliness and social isolation can negatively impact a senior's mental and emotional well-being. If the individual lacks social connections or the ability to engage in meaningful activities, it may be beneficial to explore senior care options that offer socialization opportunities.
Caregiver stress and burnout. Family caregivers play a crucial role in supporting seniors, but constant caregiving can lead to caregiver stress and burnout. If the primary caregiver feels overwhelmed or unable to provide the level of care needed, it may be time to seek professional senior care services.
Financial considerations. Financial factors can also influence the decision to consider senior care. If the cost of maintaining the senior's current living situation becomes burdensome or unaffordable, exploring more cost-effective care options may be necessary.
Long-term planning. Families should start considering senior care during long-term planning discussions. Having open conversations with the senior and their family about future care preferences can help everyone involved make informed decisions.
Proactive approach. Some individuals prefer to plan ahead and explore senior care options before immediate needs arise. By taking a proactive approach, seniors and their families can have a better understanding of the available resources and be better prepared for potential changes in the future.
In any case, it's crucial to involve the senior in the decision-making process and consider their preferences and desires. Aging is a unique journey for each individual, and senior care should be tailored to meet their specific needs and goals. Seeking advice from healthcare professionals, social workers, or geriatric care managers can be valuable in assessing the senior's situation and determining the most appropriate time to start considering senior care.
Filling in the gap
If a senior prefers staying at home, Keeping PACE can be a viable option that provides them with the support they need to be safe and healthy. Keeping PACE can address many of the concerns families have about the safety, health, and overall well-being of their aging relatives.
As part of our cost-effective senior home care monthly plan, a senior citizen can rely on a Keeping PACE health professional to visit them twice weekly. During those visits, the Keeping PACE team member can check the refrigerator and pantry to make sure the senior has healthy food, clear confusion related to how and when to take their medication, check smoke detectors, take out the trash on collection days, and help them connect with their doctors during their scheduled telehealth appointments.
Our team members are trained health professionals who can check a client’s vitals, including blood pressure, temperature, and oxygen saturation levels. At the physician’s request during the telehealth visit, they can perform real-time EKGs and point-of-care blood work — all in the individual’s home.
Talking to your aging parents about senior care can be emotionally challenging, but it is a crucial conversation that demonstrates your love and concern for their well-being. Approach the discussion with empathy, respect, and a focus on their autonomy. Be patient, actively listen to their concerns, and involve them in the decision-making process. Remember that each family's situation is unique, and finding the right senior care solution should be a collaborative effort aimed at providing the best possible support and care for your beloved parents in their golden years.
Ready to learn more about Keeping PACE? Contact us at (317) 998-6428