Life is exciting. It’s like a walk down the Las Vegas strip in slow motion. There are fantastic lights, some big wins, a few big losses, music, interesting people, fun, and everything in between. As Frank Sinatra, the cultural soul of a generation, often talked about, Americans are tough, we’re proud, and we roll with the punches and keep getting back up to succeed, no matter what life throws at us. But sometimes as we age, a life lived well, and long, begins to show the inevitable signs of a wonderful journey. We’re human, after all, and it’s okay to ask for, and need, a little assistance as we grow older. There’s no denying the fact that even though our minds might feel like we’re still 28, our bodies may feel more like we’re 88. And that’s life, and life is good regardless.
As we age, some may develop serious health issues that require nursing home care, but scores more may just need a little help with daily life, and that’s where assisted living rises to meet the challenge, by being there for you or a family member when you need some assistance. There are many signs you may see in yourself, or a family member, that could indicate its time for assisted living… from health and hygiene habits, to disorientation problems, to issues with finances, and more. Let’s take a look at 5 of the top signs that it’s time for assisted living, near Chattanooga, Charleston, Chapel Hill, or Chesterfield.
5 Signs It’s Time for Assisted Living
- Safety
First and foremost, your safety, or that of a loved one, is paramount. Other than your health, there’s nothing more important than being safe and secure. And when aging brings with it a dementia-related condition, safety can become an issue almost overnight. Currently, there are over 6 million people living with Alzheimer’s iin America, making it one of our great nation’s most devastating diseases, robbing good people of their memories, creating disorientation and potential danger.When dementia sets in, dangers lurk. Dementia can create confusion in the mind. Imagine the horror of being lost, wandering into an unfamiliar neighborhood that may not be safe, when you’re simply trying to get home but cannot remember how. Consider the immense danger that even simple home appliances such as stoves or space heaters can pose when not used properly or when they’re left unattended. It only takes a few seconds for a fire to start that can engulf a home in flames. When the mind is confused, safety is always a concern. Thankfully, outstanding assisted living and memory care communities are available to you in Chattanooga, so safety never has to be a concern. - Eating Habits / Nutrition & Diet
It’s a common story, someone suffers the loss of a spouse, and suddenly they’re now living alone in a big house with no one to care for them, no one to make and share dinners with. It can be a depressing time, and eating habits can suffer. Why go through the trouble of shopping and prep time… just to make a meal for one. It’s simpler just to eat a bowl of Super Sugar Nuggets or whatever your cereal of choice is, plop in front of the TV, and be done with it. But healthy food is essential to prevent the risk of disease, so if you notice that eating habits have become atrocious and unacceptable (maybe there’s even food spoiling in the fridge or worse) it’s time to consider assisted living. - Personal Hygiene
Another important issue that could indicate a need for assisted living is personal hygiene. Dementia, even slight, can influence daily decisions, and essential, health-positive daily habits may be skipped on occasion or worse, never practiced at all anymore. We’ve all skipped a shower on occasion, when we’re rushing to get things done, etc., but if it becomes obvious that a loved one is no longer bathing, washing their hands, or even brushing their teeth, it’s definitely time to consider assisted living in Chattanooga. - Mood Swings / No Interest in Activities
It can be difficult for anyone to live alone, no matter what age. As humans, most of us naturally desire to commune with others, to socialize, to engage. And unfortunately, millions of seniors all over the world live alone with no one to share life with. This can easily bring on clinical depression, which can lead to other health problems. But those who are depressed may not present their depression in the stereotypical fashion of being sullen, sitting alone with no interest in activities. Depression can be obvious in some, or hard to identify in others, but when the signs are noticed, it’s a good time to talk to a doctor, and… to consider how assisted living can help. - General Confusion
Sometimes the signs are obvious that assisted living is a necessity, and general confusion is one of those signs. If someone is feeling confused about a name or place, it may just be a moment of normal forgetfulness — we all get them as we age. But if the name that is slipping someone’s mind consistently is the name of their husband, daughter, or son, etc., and not just the name of some actor in a movie, then this could be a sign that the mind is becoming confused, that dementia is maybe setting in. Look for other clear signs, such as putting the milk away in the cabinet instead of the fridge or answering questions with answers that make no logical sense, or asking questions that someone should know without asking, such as, “Where’s your father? What time did he say he’d be home?” … when the person in question is deceased. These are just a few of many possible scenarios, any of which could indicate there’s general confusion in the mind and that assisted living or memory care should be considered.
Why Choose Rockbridge Oaks for Assisted Living?
We know you have options for assisted living, and that’s why we work harder to ensure that after you’ve looked around, you’ll be confident that our diverse, wellness-positive assisted living and memory care communities are unparalleled, regardless of price. Here at Rockbridge Oaks, our approach is based on personalized assistance. We understand that every resident is a unique person, that they’ve lived a life of their own making, their own accomplishments, a life they’re proud of, and this next stage of their life needs to be on par with the wonderful lives they’ve already led. It’s with this in mind that we get to know every resident before move-in, and during. And we gather vital information in our comprehensive wellness review which offers a chance to understand a person’s physical and mental challenges, if any exist, but also a chance to get a feel for their passions, their dreams, and what makes them happy in life. Armed with this knowledge, our trained team members tailor engagement programs and daily events that match with the individual, so they can maximize all they get out of life at Rockbridge Oaks, and thrive!
Beyond our tailored programs, our warm, welcoming, highly-skilled team members, and the many benefits and services we offer to residents, which you can read about at the link, here — there’s also the natural beauty and fresh air of Chattanooga, nestled at the foothills of the magnificent Appalachian Mountains. A beautiful landscape brings peace and tranquility; it eases the mind, and helps to relieve anxiety. Residents can walk beautiful, nature paths in our green, luscious landscapes, barbecue or grill with friends, socialize at the bark park, or maybe even join in a rousing game of pickleball or croquet at one of our many outdoor activity spaces.
Our architectural environment is modern and serene, with an appropriate touch of elegance and sophistication. We offer one and two-bedroom apartments as well as spacious studios that are designed for comfort with class. View our floorplans and choose one that fits your lifestyle. Call us to schedule a visit and we’ll happily give you a VIP tour that will amaze and impress, we’re certain!