Retirement can be extremely rewarding, offering seniors more time to pursue their passions and spend their days doing activities that mean the most to them. But it can also pose unique challenges, and sometimes, older adults will need a little help here and there. For seniors who enjoy their independence but need a hand with some daily activities, what can they do?
If this sounds familiar, then it may be time for a move to personal care. These communities are designed to offer older adults an opportunity to live somewhere that truly understands their unique needs. In personal care, your loved one can enjoy life in a community tailored to meet their needs, and enjoy each and every day doing the things that they love!
The Basics of Personal Care
Imagine a community where seniors can celebrate each and every day, spending their time as they choose. A home where they can receive professional support for the daily activities that give them trouble, but also where their independence is prioritized. This community exists—it’s personal care.
Personal care is a type of senior living that offers a balance of autonomy and caregiving. In these communities, your loved one can gain access to:
- A private or shared apartment
- In-unit kitchenettes with full-size appliances
- Chef-prepared meals every day
- Social hours
- Chapels and religious services
- Beautiful common areas, atriums, and lounges
- Transportation services
Personal care offers an environment uniquely designed to meet your loved one’s unique needs while offering access to all kinds of services and amenities. Whether your loved one enjoys learning new things, social hours, cooking, or live music, personal care offers something for everyone.
Who Should Consider Personal Care?
So how can you tell if a loved one would benefit from a move to personal care? Start by keeping an eye out for signs that they’re starting to struggle in their everyday life. Some key indicators include:
- Difficulty managing personal hygiene, such as bathing or grooming
- Forgetting to take medications or taking incorrect dosages
- Struggling to prepare meals or experiencing weight loss due to poor nutrition
- Neglecting household chores and maintenance, leading to an unclean or unsafe living environment
- Experiencing frequent falls or having mobility issues
- Exhibiting signs of loneliness or social isolation, such as withdrawal from activities or depression
- Difficulty managing finances, resulting in unpaid bills or financial stress.
If any of these situations sound familiar, it’s likely time for a move to personal care.
How to Talk to a Loved One About Personal Care
Making a move to any new community can be a daunting prospect at first. It’s important to approach this situation with care, love, and support. Make sure your loved one knows that you only have their best interests at heart and want to improve their quality of life.
Start by having an open, honest conversation. Ask how your loved one is feeling, and ask about whether or not they’ve been struggling with their everyday activities. Try to share any observations and concerns, and listen to what they have to say.
It’s important to listen to your loved one’s concerns and always be respectful of their wishes. Let them voice any fears or reservations, and try to work together to plan out a solution. Discuss the benefits of personal care, and see what they think!
This conversation may take a few sessions—after all, a move to senior living can be a big decision, so it’s likely going to take some time for your loved one to come around. Make sure to stay positive, focus on the benefits, and reassure your loved one wherever you can.
Remember: it’s a place where they can get the exact care they need, without worrying about the difficulties of the day-to-day tasks that give them trouble!
Choosing the Right Personal Care Community
If you and your loved one agree that it’s time for personal care, it’s time to choose the right community. Personal care communities offer the chance to schedule a tour ahead of time so you can see everything in person, making it much easier to tell whether or not your loved one can thrive in their new home. So to choose the right community, try to:
- Research different personal care communities online
- Visit each community in person to get a feel for the environment
- Speak to current residents to understand their experiences
- Ask about the medical and personal care services provided
- Inquire about social activities and opportunities for engagement
- Review the financial aspect of the community
Then, all that’s left is the move itself!
Personal Care in Limerick
If you think a loved one would benefit from a move to personal care, reach out to our team here at Arcadia at Limerick Pointe. In our community, your loved one can enjoy each and every day doing the things that they love. Book a tour with us today, and let’s work together to give your loved one a place that truly feels like home.
