How Do I Know If My Loved One Needs Long-Term Care? When It’s Time to Consider Support

A caregiver is helping an elderly woman stand up

It’s not always easy to know when a loved one needs long-term care. Look for changes in physical health, memory, and behavior. Struggles with daily activities, like bathing, dressing, eating, or managing medications, are key signs. Frequent falls, weight loss, or forgetting appointments may also signal a decline in independence.


Emotional shifts, such as increased confusion, anxiety, or isolation, are important to watch for. Caregiver burnout is another factor; if family members are overwhelmed, long-term care can provide much-needed support.


A medical evaluation can help determine care needs. If your loved one requires constant supervision or help with most daily tasks, long-term care may be the right choice.


Heisinger Bluffs offers compassionate long-term care tailored to your loved one’s needs in a supportive, comfortable setting.


Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the signs that long-term care is needed?

    Difficulty with daily tasks, memory loss, and physical decline are common signs.

  • Who decides if long-term care is necessary?

    A physician or care team typically assesses the need based on physical and cognitive health.

  • Can long-term care improve quality of life?

    Yes, it offers 24/7 support, safety, and social engagement.


Sources:

  • https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/mental-and-emotional-health/depression-and-older-adults
  • https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5572222/
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