When to Move from Assisted Living to a Nursing Home: What to Look For

As our loved ones age, we want to make sure that they receive the best possible care. Moving a loved one from assisted living to a nursing home is not an easy decision, but it is important to ensure that seniors receive the appropriate level of care as their needs change with time. The decision to move someone from assisted living to a nursing home is not always clear cut, and it can be challenging to know when it’s time to make the move. In this blog post, we’ll discuss when to move from assisted living to a nursing home.

Signs that it’s time to move from assisted living to a nursing home

Increased Care Needs

As seniors age, they may develop health conditions that require more care than assisted living can provide. If your loved one's care needs increase, a nursing home may be the best option. Nursing homes have trained medical professionals who can provide more specialized care to seniors with complex medical needs. In addition, nursing homes can provide comprehensive rehabilitation services to help seniors regain their independence. They offer a wide range of medical services that may include wound care, medication management, and physical therapy.

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Wandering Tendencies

Wandering is a common issue among seniors with dementia or Alzheimer's. If your loved one is frequently wandering and getting lost, it may be time to move them to a nursing home with increased security. Nursing homes have security measures in place to ensure that seniors do not wander off and get lost outside the facility. In addition, nursing homes can provide specialized care to seniors with memory impairments, including structured activities and routines that can help reduce wandering behaviors. They may also have secure units for residents with memory impairments, designed to prevent wandering and provide a safe and secure environment.

Safety Concerns

Falls and other accidents can be dangerous for seniors. If your loved one's safety is at risk due to falls or other accidents, a nursing home may provide the level of care and supervision necessary to prevent accidents. Nursing homes have staff on hand 24/7 to ensure that seniors are safe and well taken care of. In addition, nursing homes can provide physical therapy and other rehabilitation services to help seniors recover from injuries and improve their mobility. They may also have specialized equipment, such as bed alarms and fall mats, to help prevent falls and other accidents.

Social Isolation

Social isolation is a common problem among seniors who live alone or in assisted living facilities. If your loved one is becoming socially isolated and not getting enough interaction with others, a nursing home's social activities and programs may be beneficial. Nursing homes have a wide range of social activities and programs that seniors can participate in to keep them engaged and active. In addition, nursing homes provide opportunities for seniors to form new friendships and social connections. They may have resident councils and social committees that give residents a voice in planning activities and events.

Staff Availability

If the assisted living staff is overworked and unable to provide the level of care your loved one needs, a nursing home may be a better option. Nursing homes have a higher staff-to-resident ratio, which means that seniors receive more personalized care and attention. In addition, nursing homes have specialized staff, such as registered nurses and physical therapists, who can provide advanced care and treatment to seniors with complex medical needs. They may also have staff who are trained in palliative care and end-of-life care, providing specialized support to residents and families during difficult times.

Financial Concerns

Assisted living can be expensive, and the cost can become a financial burden for some families. If the cost of assisted living is becoming a financial burden, a nursing home may offer a more affordable solution. Nursing homes may be covered by Medicaid or other government programs, which can help offset the cost of care. In addition, nursing homes may offer payment plans or financial assistance programs to help families manage the cost of care. They may also have social workers or financial counselors who can help families navigate the financial aspects of long-term care.

Making the Decision to Move

Making the decision to move from assisted living to a nursing home can be challenging. It is important to discuss the situation with your loved one and their healthcare provider to determine the best course of action. It is also essential to tour potential nursing homes to ensure that they meet your loved one’s needs and preferences.

Some nursing homes offer specialized care for seniors with specific health conditions, such as dementia or Parkinson’s disease. It is essential to find a nursing home that can provide the level of care your loved one needs.

When to Move from Assisted Living to a Nursing Home

Need Help Figuring Out When to Move from Assisted Living to a Nursing Home? 

Enjoy a Free Consultation with Lux Senior Care

At Lux Senior Care, we understand that making the decision to move from assisted living to a nursing home can be difficult. That’s why we offer free consultations to parents of seniors who are in this situation. Our team of experts can help you find the perfect nursing home for your loved one based on their individual needs and preferences. We can help you navigate the various options available and find a facility that meets your loved one’s needs and budget.

Our team will work with you to assess your loved one’s care needs, medical history, and preferences. We’ll help you find a nursing home that provides the level of care your loved one needs and offers the amenities and programs that they enjoy. We understand that this is a challenging time for families, and we’re here to provide support and guidance every step of the way.

Remember, figuring out when to move from assisted living to a nursing home is not easy, but it is essential to ensure that your loved one receives the level of care they need. By looking for signs that it’s time to move and discussing the situation with your loved one and their healthcare provider, you can make an informed decision that is best for everyone involved.