What To Do When Your Elderly Parent Can't Live Alone Anymore

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As your elderly parents age, you naturally want to be there for them—just like they’ve always been there for you.  

That's why it can be especially stressful when you start to notice age-related changes like frequent falls, missed medications, confusion and memory loss, or difficulty with everyday household tasks. But before taking action to help, it’s important to first understand what kind of care and support your parents really need. 

At our senior living communities, we’ve walked hundreds of families through this same situation. Here, we’ll walk you through how to assess your parents’ needs and ensure they stay safe and supported, whether that’s with at-home support or a move to a senior living community. 

6 Signs your elderly parent shouldn’t live alone 

Everyday tasks can become challenging and even dangerous as we age. If your parent is showing signs like these, it may be time to explore additional support: 

  • Missed medications or taking incorrect doses 

  • Frequent falls or close calls, especially in the bathroom or kitchen 

  • Unopened mail, unpaid bills, dirty dishes, and trash piling up 

  • Changes in memory or mood such as forgetting appointments or becoming easily overwhelmed 

  • Unintentional weight loss or signs of poor nutrition 

  • Withdrawing from family and friends, or avoiding favorite activities 

Noticing these age-related changes means you’re paying attention, and that’s the first step toward developing a plan to help your elderly parents remain safe at home, or, if that’s not possible, find appropriate support and care elsewhere. 

How to start the conversation 

If you're concerned about your parents living alone, there are compassionate and practical ways you can begin the conversation and move forward: 

  • Have a heart-to-heart conversation. Choose a quiet time to share what you’ve observed about their health and safety. Be sure to express your love and concern for them and let them know they’ll be included in any decisions about the future. 

  • Get the full picture. A visit with your loved one’s primary care doctor can help evaluate your parents’ memory, mobility, and overall health, making it easier to determine what kind of support might be needed.  

  • Understand your loved ones’ needs. Observing the areas where your parents are struggling, whether it’s mobility, memory, or medication management, can help you determine the right level of care. 

  • Explore care options. If your parents need hands-on support, senior living communities like Comforts can provide supportive services like assisted living and memory care. Alternatively, at-home health care can offer a helping hand with many of the activities of daily living. 

  • Use all available resources: Don’t hesitate to reach out to an elder care expert, social worker, or senior living advisor to guide you through this transition and navigate the next steps. 

Comforts: Here to help  

If you're beginning to see signs your parents shouldn’t live alone, a senior living community might be just the solution you’re looking for. Our warm, homelike communities offer compassionate care, a vibrant community setting, and a dependable team that puts your loved one first.  

Whether you’re just beginning to explore options or ready to visit a community in person, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our caring team is here to help, just as we’ve done for seniors living alone and their families for the past 22 years. 

To learn more about Comforts of Home, White Pine, or Gracewood Senior Living assisted living and memory care communities in Minnesota and Wisconsin, download our brochure or schedule a visit today. We can’t wait to welcome you to our community.