When families move a loved one into assisted living, they often breathe a sigh of relief, knowing their parent is in a safe, supportive environment. But a lingering question remains: What happens if their health declines?
Assisted living communities are designed to provide a balance between independence and care, but they are not full-scale medical facilities. So what happens when a resident’s needs increase beyond what their assisted living community can provide? At Senior Living Specialists Dallas-Fort Worth, we help families navigate this often-overlooked challenge. Here’s what you need to know about how assisted living communities handle health changes—and what steps you can take to prepare.
Understanding the Level of Care in Assisted Living
Assisted living is a great option for seniors who need some help with daily activities but do not require round-the-clock medical care. Most communities offer assistance with:
- Medication management
- Bathing, dressing, and grooming
- Meal preparation and nutrition
- Housekeeping and laundry
- Transportation and social activities
However, they are not equipped to handle advanced medical needs such as:
- Full-time nursing care
- Advanced dementia or Alzheimer’s care (unless in a memory care unit)
- IV therapy or feeding tubes
- Ventilator support
This means that as a resident’s health declines, the facility may not be able to meet all of their needs—requiring additional support or even a move to a higher level of care.
Signs That a Parent’s Needs Are Changing
Family members should stay involved and watch for signs that an aging loved one may need more assistance than their assisted living community can provide. These may include:
- Increased falls or mobility issues – A rise in falls may indicate a need for more hands-on care or physical therapy.
- Worsening memory loss – If your parent forgets to eat, gets lost in the building, or exhibits aggressive behavior, they may need memory care.
- Weight loss or signs of malnutrition – If they’re not eating enough, they may need extra supervision during meals.
- Frequent hospital visits – A pattern of emergency room visits suggests their medical needs are becoming too complex for assisted living.
- Neglecting hygiene or medications – If they’re skipping medications or struggling with personal care, they may need more hands-on help.
Watching a parent’s health decline can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. At Senior Living Specialists Dallas-Fort Worth, we help families navigate these transitions at no cost to you. Whether your loved one needs more support in assisted living, memory care, or a higher level of care, we can guide you to the best option.