Signs Your Loved One Might Need An AFH

10 Signs Your Loved One Might Need Assisted Living in an Adult Family Home

Watching a loved one age can be a challenging process, especially when they start to struggle with day-to-day activities. It can be hard to know when it’s time to consider assisted living in an adult family home. You may wonder if they’re simply slowing down with age, or if their health and well-being could be improved by moving to a place where they receive more care and support.

While each person’s situation is unique, there are some common signs that may indicate your loved one would benefit from the kind of assistance provided in an adult family home. Here are 10 signs to look out for.

You can also check out our article on how to select an adult family home in Camas, Wa..

1. Difficulty with Daily Activities (ADLs)

One of the most obvious signs that your loved one might need assisted living is when they begin to struggle with activities of daily living (ADLs). These are the essential tasks most people do every day, such as bathing, dressing, using the bathroom, eating, and moving around the house.

If your loved one is having trouble with these tasks, they may need more support than you can offer at home. Assisted living in an adult family home can provide help with ADLs, ensuring that your loved one receives the care they need to stay clean, comfortable, and healthy.

2. Frequent Falls or Safety Concerns

As people age, balance and coordination can decline, leading to an increased risk of falls. If your loved one has been experiencing frequent falls, or if you notice they’re at risk of hurting themselves around the house, it might be time to consider assisted living.

Adult family homes are designed with safety in mind. They offer features like handrails, non-slip flooring, and caregiver supervision to reduce the risk of accidents. Knowing your loved one is living in a safe environment can give you peace of mind.

3. Neglecting Personal Hygiene

If your loved one is having a hard time keeping up with personal hygiene, this is another sign that they may need additional care. You might notice they’re wearing the same clothes for days, skipping baths, or not brushing their hair or teeth.

A decline in personal hygiene can be due to physical limitations, memory issues, or even depression. In an adult family home, caregivers help residents maintain proper hygiene, assisting with bathing, grooming, and dressing in a respectful and supportive way.

4. Unexplained Weight Loss or Poor Nutrition

If your loved one has lost weight recently or isn’t eating properly, this could indicate that they’re not able to prepare meals or remember to eat. Seniors may struggle to grocery shop, cook, or manage special dietary needs, which can lead to malnutrition.

In an adult family home, nutritious meals are provided regularly. Caregivers ensure that residents receive the appropriate diet and hydration, and that their meals are suited to their health conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease.

5. Memory Problems or Cognitive Decline

If your loved one is forgetting important things—like doctor’s appointments, paying bills, or taking medication—it could be a sign of cognitive decline, such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. These memory problems can make it dangerous for them to live alone.

Adult family homes often specialize in memory care, with trained caregivers who can help manage the challenges of cognitive decline. They offer a structured environment with consistent routines, helping residents with memory issues stay safe and maintain as much independence as possible.

6. Social Isolation

Has your loved one become more withdrawn or isolated? Seniors who live alone often become lonely, especially if they have lost friends or their mobility limits their ability to get out of the house. Social isolation can lead to depression, anxiety, and a decline in overall health.

Adult family homes provide a small, community-like atmosphere where residents can interact with each other and the caregivers. Social activities, group meals, and regular interaction help seniors stay engaged and maintain their emotional well-being.

7. Difficulty Managing Medications

Managing medications can be challenging, especially for seniors who have multiple prescriptions. If your loved one is forgetting to take their medications, taking the wrong doses, or mixing up their medications, this could lead to serious health risks.

In an adult family home, caregivers are responsible for managing residents’ medications. They ensure that medications are taken at the right times and in the correct doses, preventing potential medication errors.

8. Household Maintenance is Falling Behind

Another sign that your loved one might need assisted living is if they’re having trouble keeping up with household chores. You may notice that the house is messier than usual, dishes are piling up, or bills are going unpaid.

An adult family home provides a fully managed living environment, where your loved one doesn’t have to worry about cleaning, cooking, or home maintenance. This allows them to focus on their health and well-being, without the stress of managing a household.

9. Increased Health Problems or Medical Needs

As people age, it’s common for health problems to become more frequent or more complex. If your loved one has a chronic condition or multiple medical issues, they may need more frequent monitoring and care than you can provide at home.

Assisted living in an adult family home ensures that trained caregivers are available to monitor your loved one’s health and respond to medical needs. Many homes also coordinate with doctors, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care.

10. Caregiver Stress

If you or other family members are currently providing care for your loved one, it’s important to pay attention to your own health and stress levels. Caring for an aging loved one can be physically and emotionally exhausting, especially if you’re juggling other responsibilities like work or children.

When caregiving becomes overwhelming, it may be time to consider assisted living as a solution. An adult family home can provide the support your loved one needs, while also giving you a chance to focus on your own well-being. By finding the right care setting, you can ensure that your loved one is safe, happy, and well cared for—without sacrificing your own health.

Pay Close Attention To Any of These 10 Signs

When care-giving becomes overwhelming, it may be time to consider assisted living as a solution. An adult family home can provide the support your loved one needs, while also giving you a chance to focus on your own well-being. By finding the right care setting, you can ensure that your loved one is safe, happy, and well cared for—without sacrificing your own health.

Recognizing the signs that your loved one may need assisted living can be difficult, but it’s a crucial step in ensuring they receive the care and support they deserve. If you notice that they’re struggling with daily activities, experiencing health problems, or becoming socially isolated, it might be time to explore the benefits of an adult family home.

These homes offer a safe, nurturing environment where residents can receive personalized care and support tailored to their needs. By choosing assisted living, you’re not only enhancing your loved one’s quality of life, but also giving yourself peace of mind, knowing they’re in good hands.

1. Have Honest Conversations About the Move

One of the first and most important steps is having open and honest conversations with your loved one about the move. It’s natural for them to have concerns or feel anxious about leaving their current home. They may feel uncertain about the change or worried about their independence.

Start by explaining why the move is necessary. Whether it’s because they need more assistance with daily tasks, medical care, or a safer living environment, it’s important to address the reasons in a calm and understanding manner. Make sure to listen to their thoughts and concerns as well. If possible, involve them in decision-making, so they feel empowered throughout the process.

You can also take your loved one to visit the adult family home before the move. Meeting the staff and seeing the home can help ease some anxiety by making the environment more familiar and welcoming. These discussions and visits can help your loved one feel more comfortable and prepared for the upcoming change.

2. Organize Important Documents and Medical Records

Before the move, make sure you have all the necessary documents organized. Adult family homes often require medical records, insurance information, and legal paperwork, such as power of attorney or living wills.

Start by gathering your loved one’s medical history, including information about medications, any recent surgeries, allergies, and any chronic conditions. Make sure the adult family home has access to this information so they can provide the best care from the moment your loved one moves in.

You’ll also want to organize personal identification documents, such as Social Security cards, driver’s licenses, or state IDs. These documents may be needed for legal purposes or to access certain services in the future. Having everything ready and in order will make the move go much more smoothly.

3. Pack Wisely and Bring Comforts from Home

When it comes to packing for the move, think about what your loved one will need on a day-to-day basis, but also consider bringing items that will help them feel at home. Adult family homes often provide basic furniture, like a bed and dresser, so focus on packing personal belongings that will make their space feel cozy and familiar.

Start with essential items like clothing, toiletries, medications, and any necessary medical equipment. Then, include personal items that have sentimental value or bring comfort. Family photos, favorite books, or a cherished blanket can make the new environment feel much more like home.

Encouraging your loved one to be involved in the packing process can also give them a sense of control during this major life change. Allowing them to choose what to bring will help them feel more connected to their new space and can reduce feelings of anxiety.

4. Set Up the New Space with Familiar Items

Once your loved one moves in, it’s important to help them settle into their new space. One of the best ways to do this is by arranging their room to feel as familiar and comfortable as possible. Decorate with items that hold special meaning, like framed family photos, a favorite painting, or personal keepsakes.

Try to replicate some of the layout or décor from their previous home if possible. For example, if they always had a specific chair near a window for reading, recreate that in the new room. Familiarity can help ease the transition and make the new environment feel more like a continuation of their life, rather than a big, unfamiliar change.

You can also ask the caregivers at the adult family home for suggestions on how to make the space feel comfortable. They might have ideas about the best ways to personalize the room while keeping it functional for daily care.

5. Be There for Emotional Support

Moving into an adult family home can bring up many emotions, both for your loved one and for you. They may feel uncertain about their new surroundings, worried about losing independence, or even sad about leaving behind their old home. It’s essential to be there for emotional support during this time.

Stay positive and reassuring, but also allow space for your loved one to express their feelings. Let them know it’s okay to feel nervous or upset, and remind them that you’re there to help them through the transition.

Regular visits during the first few weeks can provide extra reassurance. Spend time together, share meals, or participate in activities at the adult family home to help your loved one adjust. The presence of family and familiar faces can make a world of difference in helping them feel settled and secure in their new environment.

6. Communicate with Caregivers

Good communication with the caregivers and staff at the adult family home is key to a successful transition. Introduce yourself to the caregivers and establish open lines of communication. It’s important for both you and your loved one to feel confident in the care they’ll be receiving.

Share any specific preferences or routines your loved one has, such as how they like to take their medications or their favorite times to take a nap. This helps the caregivers provide personalized care that feels comfortable for your loved one.

Additionally, stay in touch with the caregivers after the move to check on how your loved one is adjusting. If any concerns or questions come up, you’ll want to address them early on to ensure your loved one feels fully supported in their new home.

7. Allow Time for Adjustment

It’s important to remember that the transition to an adult family home won’t happen overnight. Your loved one may need time to adjust to the new environment, routines, and relationships with caregivers and other residents.

Encourage patience and remind your loved one that it’s okay if it takes time to feel completely comfortable. Some people may adjust quickly, while others might need a few weeks or even months to feel fully settled.

Be supportive, visit often, and stay involved in their care. Over time, they’ll likely begin to feel more at home and start enjoying the benefits of living in a supportive, caring environment.

Is It Time To Have The Conversation?

Preparing for your loved one’s move to an adult family home requires careful planning, patience, and emotional support. By having honest conversations, organizing important documents, packing wisely, and staying involved throughout the transition, you can help make the process smoother and more comfortable for everyone involved. The goal is to ensure that your loved one feels safe, supported, and at home in their new environment, while also giving you peace of mind knowing they are in good hands.