What if an Aging Senior Develops More Health Issues AFTER Moving into Assisted Living?
When people age, they often deal with increasing health challenges. Some of these health challenges are manageable with diet, exercise, medications, and other steps. In some cases, though, the challenges can mount, even affecting a person’s ability to get out of bed and ambulate without assistance.
So, what happens if a senior chooses assisted living because they understand it is one of the best options for older adults, was in pretty good health when they first moved in, then start developing increasing health challenges?
Every facility is different.
It’s important not to assume all assisted living communities are the same. Some may be better equipped to handle specific health challenges. For example, a memory care assisted living facility is better equipped to support residents who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.
However, an assisted living facility that is not considered “memory care” may not have the staff, resources, or ability to properly support this individual. In that type of situation and environment, it may be more prudent for the senior to choose an assisted living community that is better equipped to handle their growing physical, mental, and possibly even emotional challenges.
Consider the senior’s family history.
This particular senior may have a family history of heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s, or other serious ailments. Even though he or she may exhibit no signs whatsoever of any of these, even getting a clean bill of health from their doctor during a recent physical, that doesn’t mean this is going to remain the case for the rest of their life.
If there is a family history of dementia, such as the senior’s mother or father, grandparent, aunt or uncle, and so forth having been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, that should be discussed when looking for an adequate assisted living community.
Focus on the ‘living’ aspect.
While there may be a family history and some risk of an aging resident developing certain conditions that can complicate life at assisted living, the important factor is to focus on the keyword: living.
Assisted living is about living life to its fullest, even as people age and begin struggling with their life, health, physical abilities, and Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). When seniors and their family focus on living first, they will find the optimal community environment for him or her.
If something develops later on, then they will need to cross that bridge at that time. But, this aging senior may enjoy another 10, 15, 20 years or more in great health. Isn’t that what we should all strive to enjoy?
For more information about care homes in Hill Country Village, TX, contact Pipestone Place Assisted Living or to take a tour, call today (210) 718-0211.
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