Q&A: When Is It Time to Move a Parent to Assisted Living?
By Maryann Prassas and Margaret Roberts, Owners of Adult Care Hunters
Q: My mom has Alzheimer’s Dementia and is living at home with me and my family. How do I know when it’s the right time to move her to assisted living?
A: Every family’s situation is different, but there are key signs that can help you determine if it’s time to transition a loved one to assisted living care. Ask yourself the following questions:
- Has your mom’s dementia progressed to the point where she no longer recognizes family members?
- Is she exhibiting disruptive behaviors such as wandering, visual hallucinations, nighttime wakefulness, or undressing inappropriately?
- Do you feel unsafe leaving her alone, even for short periods?
- Would she benefit from the structure, stimulation, and social interaction offered by a professionally staffed assisted living community?
If the answer to one or more of these questions is “yes,” it may be time to explore the options and benefits of memory care or assisted living environments designed for individuals with dementia.
Q: What are the benefits of assisted living compared to in-home care?
A: There are several important benefits of moving a loved one into an assisted living community versus keeping them at home with in-home care. One of the most significant is increased socialization. Even those who describe themselves as introverts often thrive when surrounded by their peers. Being around others keeps the body, mind, and spirit more engaged.
In an assisted living setting, residents enjoy:
- Group meals and communal dining
- Daily activities like art classes, musical performances, discussion groups, and more
- Access to beauty salons, spiritual services, and scheduled events
- Ongoing exercise opportunities and wellness programs
While in-home caregivers are ideal for helping with scheduled tasks like showers, meal prep, or transportation a few days a week, they’re typically not available around-the-clock. Once a loved one needs help on an unscheduled or continuous basis—such as getting out of a chair, walking to the bathroom, or going to bed—24/7 caregiving becomes essential. This level of care is typically only available in assisted living homes or communities, where caregivers are present at all times.
Next Steps and Expert Advice
Starting with in-home care can be a great way to introduce a non-family caregiver and gradually transition your loved one toward accepting additional help. It also gives the primary caregiver—often a spouse or adult child—some much-needed relief and protection from burnout.
If you have questions about assisted living, memory care, or how to navigate the transition from home care, feel free to reach out:
- Email Maryann: [email protected]
- Email Margaret: [email protected]
We’re here to help guide you through the journey of caring for your aging parent with compassion, experience, and the right resources.