Navigating Eldercare: Signs Your Parent May Need Assisted Living (9-7-25)

Sunday, September 7, 2025

Is it time to consider a change in your parent's living situation? This episode of Navigating Eldercare is for anyone wrestling with this difficult question. Host Laura Daniels, a registered nurse and elder care advocate, walks you through the 10 most common signs that your loved one may need more support, whether at home or in an assisted living community.

Laura explains how to spot key indicators you may be missing, from subtle changes in health and hygiene to increasing isolation and challenges with daily tasks. We also cover specific red flags for memory-related concerns, such as disorientation and wandering. The episode provides practical advice on how to start these sensitive conversations and offers solutions that promote safety, dignity, and a better quality of life for your loved one—and peace of mind for you.

Join Laura Daniels, RN, on this episode of "Navigating Elder Care" as she provides essential insights into the elder care journey. Discover the various senior living options available, from 55-plus communities to memory care, and learn the importance of early planning for care transitions. Laura shares her expertise in geriatric care, offering practical solutions for families facing changes in health needs. Tune in for expert guidance that empowers you to make informed decisions about elder care for yourself or your loved ones.

0:00 - 0:45 - Introduction: A guided approach to eldercare with Laura Daniels 0:45 - 2:13 - What is Navigating Eldercare? The host's background and mission 2:13 - 3:09 - Episode Preview: Signs a parent may need assisted living 3:09 - 4:09 - The difficult reality of aging and recognizing the big picture 4:09 - 5:07 - Why assisted living is a safe, supportive option 5:07 - 6:01 - Sign 1: Decline in health (falls, chronic conditions, missed appointments) 6:01 - 6:29 - Sign 2: Difficulties with daily living activities (grooming, cooking, cleaning) 6:29 - 7:06 - Sign 3: Cognitive changes (memory loss, confusion, financial issues) 7:06 - 7:54 - Sign 4: Social withdrawal and isolation 7:54 - 8:24 - Sign 5: Unsafe living conditions (clutter, poor lighting, expired food) 8:24 - 8:56 - Sign 6: Poor hygiene and weight loss 8:56 - 10:11 - Sign 7: Caregiver stress and burnout 10:11 - 11:15 - Sign 8: Care coordination challenges 11:15 - 12:05 - Sign 9: A doctor recommends assisted living 12:05 - 12:59 - Sign 10: Needs exceed what a family can provide 12:59 - 15:25 - Red Flags for Memory Care 15:25 - 16:50 - What to do next: Taking the first steps 16:50 - 18:24 - Why you shouldn't wait for a crisis to plan 18:24 - 20:01 - 4 ways to start a conversation about care with your loved one 20:01 - 21:16 - The benefits of assisted living: safety, dignity, and quality of life 21:16 - 22:15 - Planning ahead for a caregiving journey 22:15 - 23:44 - What is a caregiving plan and why you need one 23:44 - 24:02 - Next episode preview 24:02 - 25:28 - Final thoughts and contact information

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