Is It Time For A Change? How To Know When To Move to Senior Living

Is It Time For A Change? How To Know When To Move to Senior Living 

As people age, it’s normal to need extra help with daily life. Many older adults are concerned about how long they or a loved one can safely stay at home, while adult children wonder if their parents might be better off moving to a senior living community. The right choice depends on different factors like safety, personal care requirements, social life, food, medication needs, and home maintenance.

Safety  

One of the biggest concerns for older adults is safety. According to the AARP in 2021, if given the choice, 77% of adults over 50 would prefer to age in place in their own homes. As people age, however, their homes may not be ideal for their changing physical needs. Slippery floors, stairs, and bathrooms without handrails can be dangerous. In fact, only about 10% of homes in the U.S. are designed to be safe for aging adults. Staying at home may be preferable for most, but if the house is not built or retrofitted to meet the needs of seniors, it can put them in harm's way.

Updating a home to meet the safety needs of seniors with physical limitations is becoming more common. Older adults and their families are adding grab bars and ramps to their homes, along with special lighting, stairlifts or elevators and retrofitting bathrooms for added safety. However, these updates can be expensive and may not provide the level of safety seniors need.  

Personal Care

When deciding between getting personal care at home and moving to senior living, it is important to consider factors such as cost, level of care, and overall quality of life. Home care allows seniors to remain in familiar surroundings while receiving assistance with daily tasks, but costs can add up quickly, especially if 24/7 care is needed. 

On average, home care services in the Midwest range from $4,500 to $7,000 per month, depending on the level of assistance required. While home care offers comfort and individualized attention, it can become more expensive as care needs intensify. Additionally, home care may lead to social isolation, as seniors often have fewer opportunities for engagement.  

Senior living communities provide a structured environment with customizable care level options. Other benefits include dining, housekeeping, medical oversight, and social activities. Residents receive appropriate support as their needs change, as well as peace of mind knowing their care is managed by qualified staff.

Social Life  

Being around others is essential for a person’s happiness and mental health. Seniors living alone may feel lonely, especially if they have trouble driving or leaving the house. This isolation can lead to sadness and depression. 

A senior living community offers many opportunities to meet people, make friends, and join activities. Studies show that seniors who socialize often feel happier and healthier. Many seniors have noted that the relationships they form with other residents contribute to their sense of well-being and report improved mental and physical health. 

Healthy Eating  

Eating well is a big part of staying healthy, but cooking can become more challenging as people age. Some seniors may not have the energy or ability to get to the grocery store and cook balanced meals, which can lead to poor nutrition. Many seniors rely on the convenience of frozen meals; however, according to the CDC, processed and prepared foods like frozen meals are full of sodium—which can contain more than 70% of the daily requirement of sodium. Too much sodium can increase blood pressure and increase the risk of stroke and/or heart disease.  

In a senior living community, meals are prepared for residents and made to meet their nutritional needs. The Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics emphasizes that minimizing food risks, such as foodborne illnesses, plays a crucial role in overall wellness, and senior living communities ensure safety by following strict food safety standards. In addition, the social aspect of eating with others can make mealtimes more enjoyable and encourage better eating habits.  

Medication Management  

Many seniors take multiple medications, and keeping track of them can be difficult. Missing doses or taking the wrong amount can cause serious health problems.  

It may be difficult to manage medications correctly at home, especially if memory problems are involved. In a senior living community, trained staff can help ensure medications are taken on time and in the right amounts.  

Home Maintenance  

Keeping up with household chores can become stressful for older adults. Cleaning, cooking, yard work, and home repairs may be difficult or even dangerous. In a senior living community, residents do not have to worry about these tasks. Everything from housekeeping to maintenance is taken care of so seniors can relax and focus on things they enjoy.  

Questions to Help Decide  

If you or a loved one, especially an older parent, are unsure whether to stay at home or move to senior living, ask these questions: 

Safety  

• Have there been any falls or accidents at home?  

• Is it easy to move around the house safely?  

• Would home modifications be needed to prevent injuries?  

Health and Medications  

• Are medications being taken correctly?  

• Is there a need for regular medical care or supervision?  

• Are health conditions getting more challenging to manage at home? 
  

Social Life  

• Does the senior feel lonely often?  

• Are there regular opportunities to see friends and family?  

• Would joining activities and social groups be helpful? 
  

Daily Tasks  

• Is it becoming hard to cook, clean, or take care of the home?  

• Are meals healthy and balanced?  

• Are personal hygiene and self-care being managed well? 
  

Financial Situation  

• How much would it cost to modify the home or hire caregivers?  

• Would moving to senior living be more affordable in the long run?  

• Are financial resources available for either option? 
  

Thinking about these questions can help seniors and their families decide what will work best for their situation.  

Here to Help  

Ebenezer senior living communities offer a full spectrum of care and living options to support the evolving needs of older adults. From independent living for active seniors to assisted living for those who need help with daily activities, each level provides the right balance of support and independence. Memory care offers specialized attention for individuals with cognitive impairments, while skilled nursing delivers intensive medical care when needed. 
 
With these tailored options, Ebenezer ensures that seniors receive the right level of care to enhance their well-being and quality of life at every stage. If you are unsure whether senior living is the right choice or which care level best suits your needs, we are here to help guide you through the decision-making process.