Noticing that a loved one may require assistance in their everyday lives is not always easy. In fact, it can be heartbreaking to realize that someone you love is no longer capable of taking care of themselves. However, the sooner you spot the signs that someone requires assisted living, the sooner your loved one will begin receiving the care they desperately need and deserve. Currently, there are more than 800,000 Americans that are living in an assisted living home, according to the American Health Care Association. Knowing three of the signs that someone requires the help of an assisted living community can help you guide your own loved ones toward receiving the care they require.

1. Your Loved One Is No Longer Taking Their Medications

A tell-tale sign that it may be time to consider an assisted living solution is when a loved one is no longer taking their medications. This may be due to forgetting to do so or due to refusal for other reasons, such as dementia, bipolar disorder, or another undiagnosed condition. Assisted living facilities can help ensure a loved one is staying on top of taking all of the medications they require in order to live their best life.

2. Decreased Mobility

If you notice that someone you love is having difficulty walking or getting around, they may soon require assistance. Noticing a slight decrease in mobility is typical as someone ages. However, if your loved one is falling more and is unstable whenever they attempt to move around on their own, they may be better off in a monitored environment. Be sure to choose a facility with highly-trained and experienced staff to guarantee they're being put into good hands.

3. Lack of Grooming

A noticeable lack of grooming can also indicate that your aging loved one is no longer capable of caring for themselves. It may be difficult for them to remember to bathe or they may find it physically exhausting to do so on their own. The right assisted living community can help your loved one manage their grooming needs.

Knowing when an assisted living community is right for a loved one can be difficult, but it's often necessary to prevent potential falls, injuries, and fatal accidents. When you're aware of your loved one's behaviors and abilities, it becomes much easier to determine when it's time to seek out a facility that's right for their needs. Do you have a loved one who is struggling to care for themselves or is becoming increasingly immobile on their own? If so, contact Tender Hearts Assisted Living today.