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Healthy older people can often live independently for many years and do very well. However, even the most robust seniors may eventually begin to decline mentally or physically as they age, and that can make it unsafe for them to be on their own. It can be challenging for caregivers to decide to move the elderly to senior communities where they will be safer.
However, there are signs that indicate that living alone is not the best choice. Moving to a community is typically the best choice if the following apply to a senior.
1. Living Like a Hermit
It is common for many older people to stay home more, which is not necessarily a problem. However, if the elderly begin to stay home because going out is too difficult, or they suffer from anxiety or depression, living alone is not the best choice.
Millions of older people move to senior communities and choose senior independent living arrangements that allow them to meet new friends, have access to vibrant social life, and get their everyday needs met.
2. An Unkempt Appearance
Per Psychology Today, older adults who lose interest in their appearance may not be able to care for their daily needs. The problem is especially obvious if a previously sharp dresser appears unkempt.
In some cases, changing physical or mental conditions could make it difficult for them to get ready each day. In these cases, seniors often do well when they move into communities that provide any needed help.
3. Their Home Is Increasingly Messy
If an older person’s home is just a bit less tidy than it once was, there usually isn’t a problem. But, if caregivers notice a sinkful of dirty dishes, items stacked all over the house, and mounds of unwashed clothes, an older person might no longer be able to live on their own. If poor housekeeping has become a health hazard, moving to a senior community may be a lifesaver.
4. Unexplained Purchases
If an older person begins complaining that they do not have enough money to pay their bills or caregivers notice that their card balances are very high, it might be a sign seniors can no longer handle their finances. Some aging people begin to order things they don’t need, and they no longer monitor their budgets.
5. Lots of Unopened Mail
When the elderly become depressed, they often lose interest in everyday things like opening the mail. Per the professionals at Senior Safety Advice, this may be a natural part of aging but can also point to a cognitive or sensory decline or physical difficulties.
6. Missed Appointments
When seniors start to miss appointments and scheduled events with friends and family, it could mean they would do better living in a different setting. While one or two missed appointments might not be a big deal, skipping important doctor appointments regularly could impact their health.
7. Inability to Do Mental Tasks
As seniors age, they may experience mental decline that leaves them unable to do once-simple mental tasks. For example, if an older person always managed their finances skillfully but is now unable to balance a checkbook, they are probably experiencing mental issues and should not live alone.
8. Confusion About Medication
Seniors often use pillboxes to remind them when to take medications. If caregivers examine a pillbox on Friday and notice that it still has pills from earlier in the week, it could mean that an older adult forgets to take their medications or no longer remembers that they need to.
While many seniors thrive while living alone, some get to a point where it is no longer possible. Signs that the elderly are not safe on their own can include an unkempt appearance, a very messy house, living like a hermit, and stacks of unopened mail. Other indicators include mental confusion and the inability to do familiar things.
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