When it comes to making the difficult decision to move an elderly loved one into assisted living, many caregivers feel overwhelmed with guilt, obligation, and doubt.

It can be tough to know when a move is really needed – especially when you’re trying to put off having to make that tough decision for as long as possible. But sometimes, caring for someone at home becomes unsafe or impossible to sustain.

To make the decision a little easier, we share 5 ways to know when it’s necessary for your older adult to move to assisted living:

1. If you’re finding that your older adult is behaving aggressively and violently, and nothing you do seems to help, it might be time to consider assisted living.

Often, this kind of behaviour is a sign that someone has dementia or another condition that requires care that is more specialised.

Don’t let yourself get too stressed out trying to deal with the situation on your own – assisted living can provide a much-needed respite for both you and your loved one.

2. If you’re a carer struggling to provide constant supervision and care for your elderly loved one, it may be time to consider assisted living.

Older adults will inevitably decline in health and ability as they age, no matter how high the quality of care. This can put an intense strain on caregivers, especially if they are providing round-the-clock care themselves.

When the time comes that your loved one’s care needs become too much for you to handle safely at home, don’t hesitate to look into assisted living options. There are many great facilities out there that can provide your loved one with the level of care they need.

3. Dementia sufferers often want to walk around or have the idea to go to specific places, but they typically don’t know how to get there or how to get back home. This can lead to them getting outside very easily – or in the time it takes for you to use the restroom or get them a glass of water.

Securing the house as much as possible is one step, but if they’re still able to get out, it may be time for assisted living in a fully secured care community.

4. If you’re a carer struggling to afford the high cost of in-home care, don’t worry, you are not alone.

Many other people are in the same situation. Fortunately, there are affordable assisted living communities that can help.

Assisted living costs may be high, but they are often more affordable than in-home care.

So if you’re struggling to afford in-home care, consider moving to an assisted living community.

5. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by chronic, severe caregiver stress, know that you’re not alone. In fact, research shows that when stress levels are too high for too long, it can seriously affect your health and well-being – sometimes to the point where you are no longer able to safely care for your older adult.

That’s why it’s important to take a step back and get help before things reach that point.

5 signs that your loved one needs assisted living.