Oasis Senior Advisors, Greater Boston

Senior living community is a catchall phrase for independent living, assisted living, and memory care communities. For seniors who are ready to downsize, or for those who need more care than can affordably be provided at home, a senior living community can be an excellent choice. Independent living communities offer social activities, meals, and the security of knowing help is nearby. Assisted living and memory care communities do the same, but also provide the care ailing seniors need to live as independently as possible. If you or a loved one is struggling with whether its time to move, consider the following. RED FLAGSImmediate action is needed.        Wandering. People with dementia may get lost in familiar surroundings or they may set out for a location from their past. They are at significant risk if they are alone.        Frequent falls. Injury from a fall often marks the beginning of a steep decline in physical and mental health.         Drastic weight loss. Weight loss may be due to a medical condition, self-neglect, or simply not eating enough because its too difficult to shop and/or prepare meals adequately.        Inconsistency taking medications. Confusion and forgetfulness can lead to under- or over-medicating, resulting in falls, overdoses, or poorly controlled medical conditions.        Self-neglect. Self-neglect shows up as very poor personal hygiene, unkempt appearance, malnutrition and/or dehydration, squalid or unsanitary living conditions, and/or hoarding. YELLOW FLAGSA move should be considered.        Isolation. Studies have shown that socialization     and mental stimulation are key components to healthy aging.         Increased forgetfulness or confusion. These can lead to a senior leaving the stove on, forgetting, or doubling up on medications, and vulnerability to financial predators.        Caregiver burnout/declining health. Caregiving is emotionally and physically stressful. Caregivers may see their own health decline as caregiving needs increase. If a caregiver feels burned out or has health issues of their own, a Plan B should be put in place.        Loss of drivers license. Giving up a drivers license becomes much easier if there are good alternatives. A senior living community provides built in social activities and meals and may provide transportation to local businesses and doctors appointments.  Editors Note: This article was submitted by Megan Fisher, CSA and Bill Cleary, CSA. Megan and Bill are owners of Boston-area offices of Oasis Senior Advisors and may be reached at 781-490-0180 or 508-538-8100, or by email at mfisher@youroasisadvisor.com or bcleary@youroasisadvisor.com.