Is it Time to Move from Assisted Living to a Higher Level of Care?
Transitioning from assisted living to a higher level of long-term care is a significant decision that individuals and their families may face as they age or experience changes in their health. Assisted living communities offer compassionate support and assistance with daily activities; however, there may come a time when a higher level of care is needed to ensure a person’s safety and well-being.
The right time to make this transition is different for everyone, and there is no set milestone of when a person should move into a higher level of care. Knowing when it is time requires careful consideration, but there are signs that could help you know when the time is right for someone you love.
Our team at Uplands Village, a life plan community offering assisted living and long-term care in Cumberland County, Tennessee, is sharing some of these signs to help you on your senior care journey.
Physical Health Changes
One of the primary indicators that it may be time to move to a higher level of long-term care is a decline in physical health. As individuals age, they may experience an increase in chronic health conditions or a decline in their overall physical well-being. If an individual’s needs surpass what can be effectively cared for in an assisted living setting, such as requiring extensive medical care, frequent assistance with mobility, or specialized equipment, it may be the right time to consider transitioning to a higher level of care, such as skilled nursing.
Our life plan community offers long-term nursing care for more extensive health and personal care support than is offered in assisted living. Residents live with purpose as we help them manage chronic conditions in clean, comfortable, and caring senior housing environments. A dedicated medical team, daily nutritious meals, and meaningful enrichment activities contribute to the physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness of every resident.
Cognitive Decline
Cognitive decline is another critical factor that may indicate the need to transition to a higher level of care. Conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia can significantly impact an individual’s ability to function independently and safely.
If your loved one’s cognitive abilities have declined to a point where they are unable to manage their daily activities or are at risk of putting themself in a dangerous situation, a higher level of care, such as memory care, can ensure their safety and provide the care and support they need to enhance their overall quality of life.
Social Isolation
Socialization is a significant part of maintaining overall well-being, providing benefits such as reduced stress, improved cognitive function, and boosted self-esteem. With this being said, if your family member is feeling isolated or lonely in their assisted living community, this could be a sign that they need to transition to a higher level of long-term care.
Assisted living communities, like Uplands Village in Cumberland County, Tennessee, offer engaging activities and amenities to enhance the lifestyles of residents. Still, if they need more support than what their current level of care provides, this could lead to them withdrawing from the community.
For example, if your loved one is living with a memory impairment, they could benefit from the specialized programs our memory care services provide to help residents experience joy, relive treasured memories, communicate in new ways, reduce feelings of stress, and reconnect with others.
Ultimately, the decision to move from assisted living to a higher level of long-term care is personal to you and your family member. While transitioning to a higher level of care may be an emotional and sometimes overwhelming process, it will provide the necessary support and specialized services that can enhance your loved one’s overall quality of life, ensuring their comfort, safety, and well-being.
If you would like to learn more about our life plan community in Cumberland County, Tennessee, we invite you to contact a member of the Uplands Village team.