The decision to move someone you love, whether it be a family member or a friend can be a difficult one. There are many things to consider during the process. The initial decisions of the when and where can be daunting. To learn more about the process and making these decisions, continue on.
5 Signs it May be Time to Relocate a Loved One
1.Declining Health
Watch out for physical health issues. Has there been a fall or an accident? Is there a progressive health condition (COPD, CAD, Congestive Heart Failure etc) that is limiting one’s ability to survive physically on their own? Is the ability to ascend/descend stairs, enter areas of the home or the main entrance of the home compromised? Does he/she require a mobility aid? Physical health concerns often dictate whether a person is able to remain in their home safely with the ability to access all necessary areas.
Declining mental health conditions either due to an acute injury or progressive neurological conditions (Dementia, Parkinson’s, etc) are also signs that it may be time to move a loved one. Safety hazards can become apparent in the home: risk of fires with use of kitchen appliances, wandering, remembering to take medications, unsanitary environment, malnutrition and poor hygiene. All of these which often lead to hospital stays.
2.Not able to manage daily activities
Both declining physical and mental health conditions can increase the difficulties in managing the activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs). These are skills that people require to live independently. They are daily tasks such as getting dressed, cooking, cleaning, doing laundry, bathing, taking medications and paying bills. When individuals are no longer able to independently take care of their daily tasks, they require outside assistance from professionals or increased support from family and friends.
3.Financial Burden
A loved one remaining in their home can be costly. Financially, for the loved one, especially if relying on pensions (CPP/OAS). Increasing cost of needed services (in home and outside maintenance, transportation, meals, home care, home modifications and allied health professionals). Not to mention to cost for caregivers. According to Statistics Canada, Caring for an aging parent can cost Canadians an estimated 33 billion a year in out of pocket expenses and time off work. In 2007, most eldercare (75%) was provided by those between 45 and 64 years of age, according to Statistics Canada.
4.Isolation
Statistics Canada’s 2008/09 Canadian Community Health Survey found that 19% of individuals aged 65 or over felt a lack of companionship, left out, or isolated from others. Also, according to a 2006 study conducted by Dr. Janice Keefe, over 30% of Canada’s seniors are at risk of social isolation. Social isolation can increase the risk of anxiety, loneliness, depression, or dependence on substance abuse. Often social isolation leads to dependency on family members for emotional support.
5.Desire to relocate
Often times, with one or multiple reasons listed above, a loved one may want to relocate. The hope is that they will recognize themselves, that they present as a risk to themselves of living in their own home. Then the next question becomes WHERE to move and WE CAN HELP!
Whether it is downsizing/bungalow style home, assisted living community, retirement home or nursing home, our team of professionals is here to walk down the path with you and your family during this process and turning something daunting into a positive experience for everyone.
Call us at 416-639-9918 or fill out a form below to schedule a free in-home consultation.
