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Wondering when to move from assisted living to a nursing home? It’s a complex and deeply personal choice that requires careful consideration, as it can immensely impact the quality of life and level of care for yourself or your loved ones.
In this blog, we will highlight the key factors that can help you determine the right time to make this transition. We will navigate the emotional and practical aspects, debunk common misconceptions, and empower you with the knowledge needed to make the best choice for your unique circumstances.
Key considerations before moving from assisted living to a nursing home
If you’re reading this article for a loved one, like your mom, and thinking “Does my mom need assisted living or nursing home?” This section can help you consider several key factors before making such a decision:
1. Care needs
Assessing the level of care required is crucial. Consider any changes in physical health, functional abilities, or medical conditions that may necessitate a higher level of care that assisted living may not be able to provide.
2. Cognitive and mental health
If there are signs of cognitive decline, memory loss, or the presence of conditions like dementia or Alzheimer’s, it’s important to evaluate whether a nursing home with specialized memory care services would be more suitable.
3. Safety concerns
Identify any risks or challenges in the current living environment that may affect the elderly loved one’s safety and well-being.
4. Social and emotional support
Consider the availability of social activities, programs, and support services in the nursing home to meet the individual’s social and emotional needs.
5. Financial considerations
Understand the cost implications of nursing home care and compare them to the current assisted living expenses. Consider whether the individual’s financial resources, insurance coverage, or Medicaid eligibility can adequately support the transition to a nursing home.
6. Personal preferences
Take into account the individual’s preferences, values, and desires for their living situation. Consider their overall quality of life, including factors such as independence, privacy, dignity, and access to necessary medical services and support.
7. Legal considerations
Review legal documents such as power of attorney, advance directives, and guardianship, if applicable, to ensure they align with the transition to a nursing home.
When should you move from assisted living to nursing home?
What comes after assisted living, such as shifting to a nursing home, is an important decision that should be based on the individual’s specific needs and circumstances. While the signs may vary depending on the person, here are some common indicators that it may be time to consider transitioning to a nursing home:
1. Increased care needs
If the individual’s care needs have escalated to a point where the assisted living facility is no longer able to provide adequate support, it may be time to consider a nursing home. This includes instances where the individual requires assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, toileting, or transferring.
2. Declining physical health
If there has been a significant decline in physical health, such as frequent falls, chronic medical conditions requiring specialized care, or the need for regular medical supervision, a nursing home may be better equipped to address these health needs.
3. Cognitive decline
Progressive cognitive decline, memory loss, or the onset of conditions like dementia or Alzheimer’s may warrant a move to a nursing home. They often have staff trained to support people with cognitive impairments.
4. Unsafe living conditions
If an elderly individual’s safety is at risk due to their living environment, such as challenges navigating the premises, wandering tendencies, or the inability to manage medications properly, a nursing home can provide a more secure and supervised environment.
5. Social isolation and lack of engagement
If a senior is experiencing social isolation or a lack of meaningful engagement in the assisted living facility, a nursing home may offer more opportunities for social interaction, recreational activities, and a sense of community.
6. Caregiver stress and burnout
If family caregivers or the primary caregiver is experiencing significant stress, burnout, or physical limitations in providing the necessary care and support at home or in assisted living, a nursing home can offer respite and professional care for the individual.
7. Palliative or end-of-life care
If the individual requires specialized palliative or end-of-life care, a nursing home may have the resources, expertise, and support services needed to ensure comfort and dignity during this stage of life.
Addressing concerns and misconceptions about the transition
Addressing concerns and misconceptions about nursing homes is vital in making an informed decision about transitioning to one. Here are some common concerns and misconceptions:
Misconception 1: Loss of independence
Nursing homes are designed to balance care and independence. They provide varying levels of assistance based on individual needs. Residents are encouraged to maintain independence in activities they are capable of performing while receiving support in areas where they require assistance.
Misconception 2: Poor quality of care
Nursing homes are regulated by state and federal agencies to ensure they meet specific standards of care. They employ trained and qualified staff members, including nurses, certified nursing assistants (CNAs), and therapists, who provide personalized care based on residents’ medical, physical, and emotional needs.
Misconception 3: Triggers social isolation
Another misconception about nursing homes is that they trigger isolation and distress. However, well-regarded nursing homes recognize the importance of socializing for residents’ well-being and offer a range of activities and programs to promote social engagement. These activities can include group outings, cultural events, games, exercise classes, and social gatherings, fostering a sense of community and reducing social isolation.
Misconception 4: Mishandling of personal belongings
Nursing homes have procedures in place to safeguard residents’ personal belongings. This can include labeling items, keeping them secure, and providing help managing personal possessions. Communication with the staff regarding any concerns or specific requirements can help ensure the safety and security of personal belongings.
Misconception 5: Ignores emotional well-being
Transitioning to nursing homes can be emotionally taxing for older adults and their families. Nursing homes often have social workers, counselors, or other support staff who assist residents in adjusting to their new environment. They provide emotional support, help residents connect with others, and address any concerns or anxieties during the transition process.
Misconception 6: Lacks individualized care
Nursing homes develop individualized care plans for each resident based on their specific needs, preferences, and medical conditions. These care plans are frequently reviewed and updated as necessary. The interdisciplinary team, including doctors, nurses, therapists, and social workers, works together to provide comprehensive and personalized care to meet the unique needs of each resident.
How to plan and manage moving from assisted living to nursing home?
By following these steps, individuals and their families can effectively plan and manage the transition from assisted living to a nursing home, ensuring a smoother and more successful move:
- Research nursing homes and schedule visits to the shortlisted nursing homes to tour the facilities, meet staff members, and observe the environment.
- Engage family members, friends, and caregivers in the decision-making process.
- Seek guidance from healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, or social workers, involved in the individual’s care.
- Create a detailed plan outlining the logistics of the move, including packing belongings, notifying the assisted living facility, arranging transportation, and coordinating with the nursing home for admission.
- Evaluate the financial implications of moving to a nursing home. Understand the cost structure, payment options, and explore available financial assistance programs or insurance coverage.
- Communicate with the nursing home staff regarding the individual’s care needs, medical history, medication schedule, dietary requirements, and any specific preferences or concerns.
- Recognize that transitioning to a new living environment can be emotionally challenging. Offer emotional support to the individual, involve them in decision-making, and encourage them to participate in activities and social opportunities within the nursing home.
- Follow up regularly and advocate for the individual’s needs and be an advocate for the individual, addressing any concerns or issues that may arise during their stay in the nursing home.
Final thoughts
To conclude, if you are considering when to move from assisted living to nursing home, the first and foremost thing you should do is to stop viewing it as a negative step. While assisted living can provide a level of independence and autonomy, there may come a point when the services and care provided in a nursing home setting are more appropriate and necessary.
We hope that you find the information in this article helpful as you navigate this important and sometimes challenging decision. Remember, each individual’s circumstances are unique, and it is essential to assess their changing needs and available resources when making this decision.
We wish you the best as you make this decision and embark on this new chapter of your loved one’s life.
FAQs
At what age do most people move into nursing homes?
On average, individuals tend to move into nursing homes in their late 70s or early 80s. This is a time when many people may experience a decline in physical health, increased care needs, or the onset of cognitive conditions such as dementia. However, it’s important to note that this is a general average, and individual situations can vary significantly.
Which is cheaper, nursing home or assisted living?
Assisted living is cheaper costing an average of $4,500 per month compared to a monthly cost of $7,500 for nursing homes. Nursing homes are more expensive as patients require intensive medical care and 24/7 supervision from healthcare experts.
Are nursing homes able to allow spouses to stay together?
Yes, nursing homes generally have the option for couples to stay together. Such facilities provide shared rooms or adjacent rooms. Sometimes, the availability will depend on the individual’s care needs and policies of that place.
