IS IT TIME TO CONSIDER ELDER CARE OPTIONS?
The Baby-Boomer generation is aging and whether you live near or far from your parents, you will mostly likely be involved in the care of an elderly family member in one day. While that day might not be today and your parents may still be a “young” 70, staying active and seemingly in good health, with an ever-increasing number of elderly Americans, there may come a time when professional assistance to needed to help care for your aging relatives.
How do you know if it is time to consider elder care assistance? The simplest answer is, whenever the current care system is no longer effective. Determining what exactly that means is a little more complicated answer is that it could depend on several factors, including when the necessary medical attention is beyond the skill or resources of the family.
Signs It Might Be Time For Elder Care Assistance
- A definite decrease in personal hygiene and grooming
- A significant decrease or increase in weight
- Trouble maintaining a clean home
- Difficulty driving
- A loss of mobility
- Frequently forgetting to take medications or refill prescriptions
- Inability to manage finances
- Noticeable memory loss
- Diminished communication ability
If you notice one or more of these signs, you should consult at doctor first. Sometimes a new pair of glasses or change in medication can have a dramatic effect on an individual’s ability to care for themselves. However, if your aging relatives is experiencing a rapid decline in health or mental awareness and is no longer able to safely live on their own, it is time to explore elder care options.
There are many types of senior care and facilities available, such as adult day care, in-home care, assisted-living communities, and nursing homes. Exploring the options and deciding which ones will be the best fit for financial limitations, medical requirements, location preferences and family dynamics can be a very difficult decision.
If you don’t know where to start or if your family can not come to an agreement on the appropriate level of care, try to seek out a neutral opinion for advice. CalRegistry is committed to helping every person who calls to find the most appropriate and cost effective retirement care within California. Working with us will save time as well as help relieve anxiety and frustration during a stressful time. If you or a family member is no longer able to maintain an independent lifestyle, contact California Registry to discuss elder care services and options available throughout California.