Concerned About an Elderly Parent Living on Their Own?

Has your elderly parent spent a lot more time alone during COVID-19 and now appears to be having difficulty taking care of themselves or managing their home as they were once able to? For many families, the last year and a half has underscored the fact that their elderly loved one is not getting on as well as they did before the pandemic; and may need additional help with the activities of daily living.   

We know the decision to move a family member into a senior living community is a big one. Seniors can be resistant to moving, and many hate the idea of leaving their home and everything familiar to them. However it is important thing to consider whether your parent’s current living situation is meeting their overall physical and safety needs; and if it doesn’t, it is time to start the conversation about the need for change.  

One important thing to look for is if your loved one has had one or more falls over the last several months. The CDC reports every second of every day, an older adult (age 65+) suffers a fall in the U.S.—making falls the leading cause of injury and injury death in this age group. Every 11 seconds a senior is treated at an emergency room for injuries suffered in a fall. In addition does their home have stairs they must use, or do they have a problem get up from a chair or out of bed. Also take a good look at mom or dad’s appearance. Are they looking disheveled or is the house looking neglected.    

If mom or dad does need help with the ADLs (activities of daily living) and would benefit from more socialization, MorningStar of Happy Valley is a trusted senior living community in Happy Valley. Our home offers 61 private suites available in a range of configurations and floorplans; and residents receive 24-hour Care Managers, access to full-time licensed nurses, medication management, care plan reviews and other services. Amenities include a 24-hour bistro with full bar; life enrichment room; spa; fitness and wellness center; massage/therapy room; salon; game room; theatre/chapel; and more. Our Reflections Neighborhood offer seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia individualized memory care. Visit our website to learn more.