Chancellor Gardens at Clearfield - MBK

When is the right time for your loved one to make the move to a senior living community? Most importantly, its before there's a crisis that goes beyond what you can easily handle. And the earlier your spouse, mom or dad settles into a new community the greater their enjoyment of their new lifestyle, friends and benefits. But more specifically, when it comes to physical health, there are three key areas to keep an eye on when your love done is aging at home.Changes in Sleep PatternsThe first big indicator of concerning physical changes is sleep irregularity. Are they sleeping most of the day, or at unusual times or in odd locations perhaps even out in public? Is their energy so low that they are unable to stay awake at the dinner table?Sleep is critical for overall health at any age, but seniors are at a much higher risk for sleep disturbance and sleep disorders. These issues can improve if your loved one is being encouraged to maintain a healthy level of physical activity and if he or she is experiencing interaction and companionship with others.Most research indicates that just 30 minutes of activity per day will help older adults get a good night's sleep, said Josh Allen, RN. This effort doesn't need to be strenuous it can be as simple as taking a short walk alone or with one of our community's walking groups. We make staying active easy at our MBK communities whether it be chair yoga, guided meditation, orprivate training courses.Personal UpkeepThe second more obvious indicator is a deterioration of personal upkeep. Some of these outward signs are weight loss due to a lack of appetite or skipping meals, not wearing clothes correctly or wearing soiled clothing, or failing to take basic hygiene steps such as combing or brushing hair.This current COVID situation with its travel restrictions and complications is depriving family members the opportunity to see their elder adult firsthand as regularly as needed or as you would like, said Crystal Roberts, National Director of Resident Enrichment. This is a key advantage of living in an MBK community because even during the pandemic, residents are physically checked on, cared for and served daily.The state of the home, if in disarray, can also be a sign that life on their own has become overwhelming. If your loved one has always kept things a certain way around the house and you've noticed they no longer do, this is a sign that they will benefit from being relieved of responsibility for physical upkeep of their space.Risk to SafetyThe third set of indicators is the most critical because it affects the safety and physical well-being of your loved one. Short term memory challenges can become serious if the older individual begins getting lost while driving which puts him or her at risk of a car accident or being vulnerable in an unfamiliar location. Forgetting to take prescribed medications can trigger a medical emergency that could be avoided with the medication management assistance available at senior living community.Unfortunately the most common physical setback for seniors living without assistance is falling. In fact, according to the CDC, more than one out of four older people falls each year and of those, 20% results in injuries requiring hospital visits.Hospitality AwaitsAt MBK Senior Living, our care philosophy includes a personalized, relationship-based approach so we always start by taking the time to get to know each senior and immediate family personally, learning their unique story and ensuring they have just what they need to truly live and feel their best. Once the decision is made to move your family member to an MBK community, rest assured they will feel welcome and cared for. Our well-trained staff are experts in helping residents transition into our communities and take full advantage of programs and services that support social, physical and long-term care needs. All our MBK communities offer whole-person wellness programming, robust and flexible dining program, person-centered, compassionate care philosophy, and an inviting atmosphere for friends and family to connect and thrive. If you're recognizing the signs its time for a more supportive living situation, talk with one of our Directors of Sales to learn more about next steps. We are confident that when your spouse, elderly relative or friend makes the move to an MBK community, they will have the opportunity live with reliable care, social opportunities, healthy activities, great cuisine and a wonderful place for you to visit!