One of the most significant objections to assisted living is that people wonder how their loved ones are doing when they are not around. Therefore, we have compiled a list of questions that family members can ask administrators regarding your senior loved ones’ care, well-being, and health. After all, you are still their advocate, even if they do not live with you. Your family members rely on you to monitor and protect their care. These questions should help you to assess how your family member is thriving and adjust their care if necessary.
- Is my family member engaging in activities and socializing? It is important to ensure that seniors stay involved and participate in community activities. If they are not engaging with the community, it is a sign that they may not be comfortable or happy in their new living arrangement. Loneliness and isolation are especially troubling in elderly adults and can cause depression. Their loved ones need to understand their level of engagement – are they interacting with other residents? Are they getting the mental and emotional support they need? If not, you may schedule some time with the administration or staff to brainstorm possible solutions. An excellent way to inspire involvement is to participate alongside them. You can bring games or crafts and invite others to join you or ask the staff about attending their regular social events to help your loved one feel more at home.
- How is my loved one’s mental health? As we have discussed, depression is common among dementia patients. It is vital to understand that if your senior family member is exhibiting symptoms of depression, you should make yourself available to help them. A mental health expert can prescribe medications to alleviate some of the impacts of depression, but there may be other tangible ways to address the issue. Ask the facility staff if they have seen signs of apathy or an increased tendency towards isolation. It can be difficult to distinguish between dementia and depression, but those who see them daily can provide insight. Also, inquire about any evident anxiety when the resident is asked to interact with others. The family and staff should work together to help alleviate these stressors and encourage engagement with others.
- What are their vital signs? Evaluating your senior loved ones’ weight and blood pressure offers critical insight into their overall health and well-being. Weight loss, for instance, may indicate that they are not eating well enough. Changes in blood pressure and oxygen levels can also indicate a hidden health problem. Low blood pressure may be especially problematic, indicating dehydration. The assisted living or memory care staff might need to monitor your loved one to ensure they drink enough fluids.
The Final Question to Ask
Is there anything I can do to help? This is one of the most meaningful questions a family member can ask the facility staff. The personnel interacting daily with residents will appreciate your willingness to remain involved in your loved ones’ lives. If they recommend that you visit more often, take that to heart. They may ask you to provide favorite snacks, schedule routine video calls, or buy them a walker so they can join their peers outside.
Once your loved one has gotten accustomed to their new home, they may need less. It is imperative to speak often with staff to understand the ongoing needs of your family member.
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