Find Senior Care (City or Zip)
Join Now Log In
R
Revajane Asked June 5, 2023

My husband was weak and falling yesterday, the first time in months (possibly dehydration), is it too late to consider assisted living?

He also has moderate dementia, Type 2 diabetes, heart issues and some incontinence. He's balking at assisted living but we are working with a therapist.

MeDolly Jun 5, 2023
Not sure what the cause is, however, he has a host of issues and his dementia definitely will continue to get worse.

I am one of those people who plan ahead before there is a crisis, so I would be working on getting him placed somewhere before it becomes an emergency.

The good AL places in my neck of the woods generally have a waiting list.

Geaton777 Jun 5, 2023
Your profile says he's only 75 years old. Does he have cognitive issues? If not, and you are not his PoA then you won't be able to force him into AL without his cooperation.

Is it "too late"? In my experience the facility will interview him to have this discussion and confirm his level of care needs.

ADVERTISEMENT


AlvaDeer Jun 5, 2023
Dehydration and lowered blood pressure often happen in concert, and falls are common in those circumstances. Do you have a good blood pressure machine (cheap on Amazon and I like the Omron as a retired RN). Is hubby on any meds that might lower his pressure?
The falls alone I don't see as a reason for placement, and you do not tell us how advanced his dementia is, or what burdens it places upon you.

Can your husband be left alone at all or is his dementia too advanced for that?

I am so glad you are consulting a therapist. Is your husband able to participate in therapy? Or will you be left with this final question and do you have the POA to deal with it?

It's difficult for me to get a good picture here, but only your two can decide when it's time for long term care placement. It has to be your choice. Before that time do consider seeing an elder law attorney to be certain your division of finance work is done, or what work would have to be done in those circumstances. Be certain your documents are complete. You are at least at the place where these issues need to be in place.

ADVERTISEMENT

Ask a Question

Subscribe to
Our Newsletter