As your loved one ages, you might worry about whether they are safe, eating well, staying active, and thriving. These worries can weigh heavily, but there are solutions that can provide your loved one with the services and assistance they need. Assisted living is a popular option for older adults and their families, offering a balance of independence and support. These communities offer 24/7 caregiver support, meals, social opportunities, and help with daily tasks in a safe and welcoming environment. While every situation is different, here are five common signs that can help you recognize when it might be time for assisted living for a loved one.

The senior has experienced a fall in the past few months

Falls are common in older adults, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reporting that 1 in 4 older adults falls annually. Falls are the leading cause of injury in older adults and can bring on serious health consequences. If your loved one has fallen in the past three months, it could indicate underlying issues such as reduced balance, decreased strength and endurance, medication side effects, or a neurological condition. In addition, a fall can cause fear and anxiety, which can prompt a more sedentary lifestyle, leading to further declines in physical and cognitive health.

If your loved one has recently fallen, it might be time for assisted living. These communities can provide services and support to help reduce fall risks and promote confidence, such as:

• 24/7 caregiver presence for prompt assistance, including emergency response in case of a fall.
• Physical fitness classes designed to improve balance, strength, and mobility.
• On-site or coordinated access to outpatient physical and occupational therapy for fall prevention.
• Thoughtfully designed floor plans that enhance safety and ease of movement.
• Support with higher-risk daily tasks, such as bathing or dressing, to reduce fall risks.

The senior has had unintended weight loss or gain in the last six to 12 months

Unintended weight gain or weight loss can sometimes indicate health or lifestyle issues. Whether due to medication side effects, decreased physical activity, difficulty preparing meals, or early cognitive decline, a noticeable change in weight is worth addressing, and it may be time to consider assisted living.

Assisted living communities help residents maintain a healthy weight through services including:

• Chef-prepared meals tailored to medical needs and personal preferences, with oversight from dietitians and physicians.
• Caregivers who provide reminders, encouragement, and assistance during mealtimes, including safety supervision if needed.
• On-site nursing staff who monitor nutrition, coordinate with doctors, and can recommend added support such as speech therapy or dietary modifications.
• Medication management, including monitoring for side effects that may impact appetite or metabolism.
• Wellness programs that promote physical activity through classes, walking clubs, and recreational opportunities, which can stimulate appetite or promote weight loss.

The senior has said they’re lonely or is showing signs of isolation

If your loved one has mentioned feeling lonely or is showing signs of social withdrawal, it’s a concern worth taking seriously. Social isolation and loneliness have been linked to serious health complications, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, depression, and anxiety. 

Assisted living communities are designed to be hubs of social opportunity, giving neighbors the chance to meet up with one another and form important connections through:

• Daily activities and group events that promote shared experience and conversation.
• Common areas like libraries, living rooms, and outdoor patios, where residents can gather.
• Caregivers trained to recognize signs of isolation and encourage participation in social opportunities.
• Access to social workers and other professionals who can recommend counseling, support groups, or other interventions to enhance socialization.
• Communal dining that encourages social interaction.

The senior’s personal hygiene or home cleanliness has declined

If you’ve noticed your loved one wearing the same clothes repeatedly, skipping showers, or letting laundry and household chores pile up, it could indicate physical fatigue, mobility challenges, or early cognitive decline that makes everyday tasks feel overwhelming. 

These changes could mean that it’s time to consider assisted living. Assisted living communities help restore comfort, dignity, and routine by offering:

• 24/7 caregivers who can provide assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as dressing, grooming, bathing, and toileting.
• Housekeeping services to maintain a clean and safe living space. 
• Staff trained to notice changes in hygiene or appearance and alert nurses or care coordinators to follow up.
• Accessible bathrooms and apartments that are easier and safer to navigate, promoting independence with ADLs.

The senior struggles to properly manage their medications

More than 20% of seniors take five or more prescription medications per day, making it easy to forget or feel overwhelmed by dosages and schedules. Unfortunately, older adults managing their own medications are at a higher risk for medication errors, which can lead to unplanned hospital visits or other complications. 

If your loved one takes multiple medications or is simply overwhelmed, it might be time for assisted living. These communities are there to help with comprehensive medication support, including:

• On-site nurses who keep track of medications and manage individual regimens.
• Caregivers who can provide verbal reminders and check for correct doses.
• Partnered pharmacies that deliver medications to the community so family members don’t have to worry about picking them up and dropping them off.
• Monitoring for potential side effects or issues, with nurses reporting concerns to physicians.

Knowing when it’s time for assisted living

Deciding when it’s time for assisted living isn’t always easy, but recognizing these signs can help you make an informed, confident choice. Assisted living communities can enhance independence, peace of mind, and health thanks to their caregiver assistance, professional resources, and services. If you’ve noticed one or more of these signs, it may be time to start the conversation, explore communities, and schedule tours. The right assisted living environment can provide peace of mind, connection, and a renewed sense of independence for your loved one.

If you think it could be time to consider which assisted living community is right for you, contact your local Oasis advisor to learn about the communities in your area.

Senior care facility rules and requirements vary based on company-specific policies and state-level regulations. The content above represents common guidelines but may differ from a particular facility’s policies or requirements. To learn the regulations that apply in your state, contact your local Oasis Senior Advisor.