By Sylvana Rinehart
The Right Time to Move: Navigating Senior Care Decisions Before It’s Too Late
The Toughest Question: When Is It Time to Move a Loved One?
For decades, I’ve helped families face one of the most difficult decisions in senior care: “When is it time to move my mom or dad?” It’s an emotional question that often comes with feelings of guilt and uncertainty, especially when it’s the holiday season and no one wants to disrupt the joy of family gatherings.
Many families set imaginary timelines to delay the decision. “We’ll move her after the holidays,” or “I’ll make the change in the spring.” These thoughts are understandable and human reactions to the overwhelming emotions involved. You hope that something will happen—some kind of sign—that makes it clear the time has come. Unfortunately, waiting too long can lead to an unexpected crisis, drastically limiting the options that were available just a few months earlier.
The Risks of Waiting Too Long
Today, while accompanying a client to one of our trusted care providers, the provider shared a story that truly resonated with both my client and me.
“I started taking care of John before he lost the ability to clearly communicate his needs,” she said. “Because I knew him well, I could sense that something wasn’t right. I alerted his family, and together, we arranged for him to be seen by a physician. As a result, we were able to address the issue early and avoid what could have been a serious setback.”
This story serves as an important reminder—waiting too long to move a loved one can put them at greater risk. When new caregivers have the time to develop a relationship with your loved one, they can recognize early signs of health concerns that might otherwise go unnoticed. This proactive care prevents emergencies and helps create a positive care experience for everyone involved.
Why “Sooner Rather Than Later” Is Often the Right Answer
When families ask, “When is the right time to move?”, my answer is often, “Sooner rather than later.” Here’s why:
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More Options, Better Outcomes:
- Waiting until a crisis limits your choices. By planning ahead, you’ll have access to the best senior living communities and care providers that align with your loved one’s needs.
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Smooth Transitions:
- Moving before a decline allows your loved one to adjust gradually to their new environment, helping them feel more at ease. Caregivers also get the chance to know their routines and identify subtle changes in behavior or health.
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Proactive Care vs. Reactive Care:
- When caregivers build relationships with residents, they can detect issues early, preventing emergencies. As seen with John, early intervention can avert serious health setbacks.
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Peace of Mind for Families:
- Knowing your loved one is in a safe, supportive environment brings relief and reassurance. Rather than waiting for something to go wrong, you can focus on enjoying time with your loved one without worry.
The Holidays: A Time for Reflection and Planning
It’s common for families to delay the conversation around senior care, especially during the holidays, hoping to maintain a sense of normalcy. However, the holidays can also be a valuable opportunity to assess your loved one’s well-being. Pay attention to signs such as:
- Decline in mobility or frequent falls
- Forgetfulness with medication or personal care
- Signs of loneliness or depression
- Increased difficulty managing daily tasks like cooking and cleaning
If you notice any of these red flags, it may be time to start planning the transition. Having these conversations early—before a crisis—ensures that you have the time to make thoughtful, informed decisions.
Let Concierge Care Advisors Help You Navigate the Journey
At Concierge Care Advisors, we understand how challenging it is to know when to make a move. Our Senior Living Advisors are here to help guide you through the process, ensuring your loved one finds a place where they can thrive with the right care and support.
We listen carefully to your concerns, offer personalized recommendations, and connect you with the most suitable care providers—all at no cost to your family. With our help, you won’t have to face this journey alone.
Let Us Help
Don’t wait until a crisis forces your hand. Contact Concierge Care Advisors today to schedule a consultation and explore the best care options for your loved one. Together, we’ll create a proactive plan to ensure your family’s peace of mind.
