by Individuals responsible for caring for a loved one can easily become stressed. This activity can take a toll, often in invisible ways. Assisted living may help manage family stress, but many people remain unaware of this. What can be done to resolve this issue?
Causes of Stress for Caregivers
Caregiving comes with many stressors. One is role confusion, as the child takes on the role of parent when caring for their aging mom or dad. Unrealistic expectations remain a problem for many, and financial pressures often come with taking on the responsibility of caring for another person. Fear and uncertainty accompany this task, and the individual may become isolated as they try to care for their loved one while handling their other responsibilities. They need help from Belmont Village to overcome these challenges and return to a normal life.
This problem is so commonplace that researchers now look to caregivers when studying how chronic stress impacts a person. Caregivers may sacrifice their health and well-being to care for others, becoming invisible second patients. The physical and emotional toll of caring for another person harms them.
The Move to Assisted Living
Assisted living comes with benefits for residents. Seniors can socialize with their peers rather than being isolated. They have access to healthy meals and dine with others for regular interactions. Many older individuals find they can no longer engage in their favorite activities and interests when they live alone. When they move to assisted living, they have staff members ready to help them pick up these pursuits again.
Caregivers also benefit from the individual’s move to assisted living. They have fewer responsibilities and can spend more time interacting with their loved ones rather than caring for their needs. The entire relationship transforms as the focus is on nurturing it rather than handling tasks that must be done. Fifty percent of caregivers say their relationship with their loved one improves after transitioning to assisted living.
Staff members monitor the residents and take action if they show changes in their attitudes, appetites, or social interactions. Early intervention is crucial. When a change is noticed, steps can be taken to resolve the underlying issue so the senior can live a life of purpose.
When Should Assisted Living Be a Consideration?
Caregivers often wonder when they should consider transitioning their loved one to assisted living. They don’t want to do so too soon, as this can leave everyone unhappy with the situation. However, they don’t want to wait longer than they should, which could negatively impact the senior’s quality of life. What signs should a family look for that suggest it may be time to move the older adult to assisted living?
The senior can no longer care for themself or handle their basic needs. They may have a dirty home, fail to bathe regularly, or avoid doing other daily tasks. Family members may help them complete these tasks initially, but the responsibility can become too much over time. When it does, it is time to consider assisted living. These communities have staff members ready to assist residents with these tasks.
Seniors may have trouble managing their finances. They might forget to pay a bill only to have the electricity cut off or fall victim to a financial scam. When an older adult makes unusual purchases, family members must step in. They may have a health issue contributing to the problem, or they can no longer manage their finances independently. Moving to an assisted living community will limit the number of bills they have and relieve some of their stress.
A worsening medical condition may lead to the need for a move to assisted living. This environment will be safer for the individual, as staff members are there to help when needed. The level of care required will play a role in the community selected for this individual.
Humans need interaction with one another to thrive. The National Institute on Aging reports that 17 percent of seniors today are isolated. There are many reasons for this isolation, including location and disability. Moving to assisted living removes these barriers and allows seniors to interact with others every day. This interaction helps decrease mortality while reducing the risk of cognitive decline.
Assisted living communities have trained staff on-site to help residents. Family members may be unable to provide the needed care, and moving to assisted living will improve the senior’s quality of life. Families must consider this and make decisions in the senior’s best interests.
The Role of the Family Caregiver Following a Move to Assisted Living
The family caregiver will no longer be responsible for day-to-day tasks involving the senior. This transition doesn’t mean they should step away completely. There are many things the caregiver can still do to help the senior.
The caregiver can advocate for the senior because they know what this individual needs. They have been providing this care. While family members shouldn’t interfere with the staff members, they can provide support by attending medical appointments, providing transportation when possible, and visiting the seniors frequently.
When the senior moves to assisted living, all parties can return to their former roles, the ones they had before one person took on the role of caregiver. They can embrace these former roles. Often, this helps enhance the relationship while allowing for better interactions.
Setting a realistic schedule following the move to assisted living is essential. All parties need time to settle into the new living arrangements, as this won’t happen overnight. The senior may need space to adjust to the new living arrangements, but the family must ensure they don’t feel abandoned. Staff members can help figure out a schedule for the family visits and ensure the seniors interact with other residents when family isn’t around.
Assisted living offers numerous benefits for seniors and their caregivers. Every family should consider this option, even if the transition to assisted living won’t happen soon. The more one knows, the easier it is to make this transition when needed.
