Is Your Parent With Alzheimer's Ready For Assisted Living?

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When your parent has Alzheimer's disease, at some point, you and your family might be faced with the tough decision of placing him or her in an assisted living facility.  Determining what is the appropriate time to make the move can be difficult. Convincing your parent that it is time might prove to be even more challenging. If you suspect that your parent may need to be be placed in an assisted living facility, here is what you need to know. 

Is It Time?

Even if your parent is receiving help in the home, moving to an assisted living facility might be necessary. In a facility, your parent can receive around-the-clock care. There are several signs to consider when determining if it is time to place your parent in a facility. The signs include:

  • Wandering. As your parent's disease progresses, he or she is at a greater risk of wandering. Unfortunately, keeping track of your parent 24/7 can be difficult. Even a few minutes left alone can give your parent the chance to wander off. 
  • Constant injuries. Alzheimer's disease impacts your parent's ability to judge dangerous situations, and as a result, he or she is more likely to experience injuries. 
  • Aggressive behavior. Frustration, anxiety, and resentment that result from having Alzheimer's disease can lead to aggressive behavior that is not only harmful to others but also your parent. 

One of the best ways to determine if it is time to consider assisted living is to stay in contact with your parent daily. Daily communications can help you pinpoint a decline in his or her condition.

What If Your Parent Resists?

Although moving into an assisted living facility might be the best way to ensure your parent is cared for, he or she could resist. If your parent has stated that he or she will not move into a facility, there are several strategies you can use to convince him or her. 

One of the easiest ways to deal with an objection from your parent is to find out why he or she is objecting. You can use information and reassurances to help overcome those objections. For instance, if your parent is resisting because he or she thinks that family and friends will not visit, reassure him or her that they will. Try to get the family to meet with your parent as a group to offer those reassurances. 

Another way to overcome your parent's objections is to keep him or her involved in the facility selection process. Depending on your parent's condition, it can take time to explore the facilities, but giving him or her more input can help lower the resentment felt about the move. 

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30 June 2016

Exploring The Assisted Living Facility Options

Hello, I am Dylan. When my remaining grandparent injured his hip, I was determined to help him achieve the best possible outcome. I knew the risks of letting him live alone in his house, so I offered to move in. He was adamant that I stay in my home, which inspired me to take him to visit assisted living facilities to help him remain living on his own without the risks. The assisted living units were perfect for his needs and we found one quickly. I want to use this site to help other people identify ideal assisted living facilities for themselves or their loved ones. Thank you for visiting my site.