By Brenda Deschner, Certified Concierge Care Advisor
When Is the Right Time to Move a Loved One to Senior Living?
Every day, I meet with families facing difficult decisions about senior care—usually prompted by a health emergency or sudden change in a loved one’s condition. One of the most common questions I hear is:
“When is the right time to move?”
While every family’s situation is unique, my answer is always the same: before there is an urgent need. This advice is especially important for those with memory issues. Moving early gives them time to adjust to their new home, form relationships with caregivers, and engage in community activities—without the added stress of advancing symptoms.
Why Moving Early Matters for Memory Care
For someone living with Alzheimer’s or dementia, waiting too long to move can make the transition overwhelming. Imagine waking up in a new environment and not recognizing where you are. This is the reality for those with cognitive impairments if a move happens too late in the disease’s progression.
Moving early allows your loved one to:
- Familiarize themselves with their new surroundings.
- Build relationships with caregivers and staff.
- Engage in activities that keep them mentally stimulated.
Key Signs It’s Time to Consider Senior Living
Families often miss or overlook signs that their loved one may need additional support. Here are some red flags to watch for:
- Medication Mismanagement
- If your loved one is forgetting doses or mixing medications, it’s a sign they need help.
- Challenges with Cooking and Cleaning
- Eating TV dinners or frequent takeout may indicate they’re struggling to prepare meals. Proper nutrition is essential for managing salt, sugar, and digestive health.
- Home and Yard Neglect
- If the yard is overgrown, clothing is dirty, or the fridge contains expired or moldy food, these are signs they may no longer be able to manage daily tasks.
- Lack of Social Interaction
- You may hear, “Mom isn’t social,” but is that really the case? Often, seniors aren’t social because they can’t drive or leave the house easily. Moving to a community offers opportunities to reconnect with peers and engage in activities, bringing joy back into their lives.
Easing the Transition to Senior Living
No one wants to be told it’s time to leave their home—it can feel overwhelming and scary. Often, resistance comes from fear of the unknown. This is where having a senior care advisor makes all the difference.
At Concierge Care Advisors, we:
- Assess your loved one’s current and future care needs.
- Recommend communities that can accommodate changes in care, minimizing the need for multiple moves.
- Offer peace of mind by helping families find a community that ensures their loved one’s quality of life.
Plan Early or React Later—We’re Here Either Way
Whether you’re planning ahead or responding to an urgent situation, we’re here to help. We’ve supported thousands of families and continue to navigate the changing landscape of senior care to meet your needs. If you’re unsure of the next steps, don’t wait until a crisis occurs. Contact Concierge Care Advisors today for a free consultation—we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s work together to ensure your loved one receives the care and support they deserve.
