The following signs indicate that you or an elder may require assistance.

• Constant fatigue

• Unsteady while walking or standing and recent falls

• Loss of hearing, sight or smell

• Diminished driving skills

• Dirty clothes or poor grooming habits

• Trouble cleaning, cooking or shopping

• No appetite or changes in eating habits

• Memory loss and confusion

• Sudden mood changes

• Loss of interest in activities and socializing

• Inability to take medications

• Mishandling finances

Navigating the options

Depending upon need, different levels of care are available.

• Independent living facilities are for seniors who don’t need special care, just opportunities to socialize. Some also offer meals and transportation.

• In-home services can consist of assistance at home with health care, meals preparation and transportation.

• Assisted living facilities allow the senior to live independently but provide help managing medications and grooming.

• Continuing care is a combination of the above situations; good for a senior whose circumstances may be changing.

• Nursing homes are for those requiring constant care by licensed health care professionals.

• Alzheimer’s care units are generally located within nursing homes with specially trained staff to treat the disease.

• Adult day care programs provide supervision and activities during daytime hours to give the caregiver a break.

Checklist considered

Follow these steps to find the best elder-care situation.

• Consult with an expert. Let the elderly person express his or her wishes.

• Location, location, location. The facility must be close in order for family and friends to visit.

• Get references. Talk to families who already have a loved one there.

• Fill the social calendar. Ask about activities and make sure they are happening.

• Get the facts at medicare.gov/NHCompare. Review facility complaint investigations and annual inspection reports.

• Check the stats. Find out about the staff to resident ratio.

• Make an appointment. Be sure physicians and therapists are available.

• Scout the site. Look for clean, cheerful rooms and grounds.

• Plan a menu. Find out when and where snacks and meals are available.

• Learn the ropes. Gain access to support groups and outside agencies.

Click for parent story

Have a comment about this story? E-mail us at mailbag@angieslist.com.