Deciding when a loved one might benefit from assisted living is one of the toughest choices a family can face. At Matulaitis Rehabilitation and Skilled Care, we understand the emotional weight of this decision. Our mission is to provide compassionate, person-centered care that supports both residents and their families through this transition. If you’re wondering whether assisted living or long-term skilled care is the right step, this guide will help you recognize the signs and make an informed choice.
Understanding Assisted Living and Long-Term Skilled Care
Assisted living is designed for individuals who need help with daily activities—like bathing, dressing, or managing medications—but still want to maintain a level of independence. Long-term skilled care, like what we offer at Matulaitis, provides round-the-clock medical support for those with more complex health needs. Our facility in Putnam, Connecticut, blends personalized care with a warm, community-focused environment, ensuring residents feel safe and valued.
Key Signs It Might Be Time for Assisted Living
Every person’s journey is unique, but certain changes in your loved one’s health, safety, or quality of life may signal that assisted living or skilled care is worth considering. Here are some common indicators:
1. Difficulty with Daily Tasks
If your loved one struggles with routine activities—such as cooking, cleaning, or personal hygiene—it may be a sign they need support. For example, you might notice unwashed dishes piling up, missed meals, or difficulty getting dressed. At Matulaitis, our team assists with these tasks, tailoring care to each resident’s needs while encouraging independence where possible.
2. Frequent Falls or Safety Concerns
Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults. If your loved one has had falls, near-misses, or trouble moving safely around their home, it’s a red flag. Uneven stairs, cluttered spaces, or poor lighting can make their environment risky. Our facility is designed with safety in mind, featuring accessible layouts and 24/7 staff to provide peace of mind.
3. Declining Physical or Mental Health
Chronic health conditions, like diabetes or heart disease, may become harder to manage at home. Similarly, memory issues—such as forgetting appointments, misplacing items, or getting lost—can indicate conditions like dementia. Matulaitis offers skilled nursing and specialized memory care, with staff trained to support residents’ physical and cognitive needs.
4. Social Isolation or Loneliness
Humans thrive on connection, but aging can bring isolation, especially if friends pass away or mobility limits social outings. If your loved one seems withdrawn, lacks energy, or rarely engages with others, assisted living can help. Our vibrant community at Matulaitis fosters social bonds through activities like group outings, arts and crafts, and shared meals.
5. Caregiver Burnout
If you’re the primary caregiver, your own well-being matters too. Juggling caregiving with work, family, or personal responsibilities can lead to exhaustion. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it may be time to explore professional care. Matulaitis provides a supportive environment, allowing you to focus on quality time with your loved one without the stress of daily caregiving.
6. Medication Mismanagement
Taking the wrong dose, skipping medications, or mixing prescriptions can have serious consequences. If your loved one struggles to keep track of their medications, skilled care can help. Our trained staff at Matulaitis ensures medications are administered correctly and monitors for side effects.
Questions to Ask Yourself
To clarify whether assisted living is the right move, reflect on these questions:
- Is my loved one safe living alone?
- Are their health needs being met at home?
- Are they eating well and staying active?
- Do they seem happy and engaged, or isolated and withdrawn?
- Am I able to provide the level of care they need without sacrificing my own health?
If these questions raise concerns, it may be time to start a conversation about assisted living or skilled care.
Why Choose Matulaitis Rehabilitation and Skilled Care?
At Matulaitis, we’re more than a care facility—we’re a community rooted in compassion. Located in the serene town of Putnam, Connecticut, our facility offers:
- Personalized Care Plans: We work closely with families to create care plans that honor each resident’s preferences and needs.
- Skilled Nursing: Our team provides 24/7 medical support, from wound care to physical therapy.
- Engaging Activities: From music therapy to gardening, we keep residents active and connected.
- Family Involvement: We welcome families to join events and stay involved in their loved one’s care.
- Holistic Approach: Inspired by our Benedictine heritage, we nurture the mind, body, and spirit.
Our long-term skilled care program is ideal for those requiring ongoing medical attention, while our rehabilitation services help residents regain strength after surgery or illness. We also offer respite care for families needing short-term support.
Starting the Conversation
Talking about assisted living can feel daunting, but approaching it with empathy can make a difference. Here are some tips:
Listen First: Ask your loved one how they’re feeling about their current situation. Are they struggling? Lonely? Worried about safety?
Share Observations: Gently point out specific concerns, like missed medications or frequent falls, without judgment.
Highlight Benefits: Focus on how assisted living can improve their quality of life—more social opportunities, less stress, and professional support.
Involve Them: Include your loved one in the decision-making process to respect their autonomy.
Tour Together: Visiting a facility like Matulaitis can ease fears. Schedule a tour to see our community firsthand and meet our caring staff.
Taking the Next Step
If you’re noticing these signs in your loved one, it’s worth exploring your options. Transitioning to assisted living or skilled care isn’t about giving up independence—it’s about ensuring safety, comfort, and a fulfilling life. At Matulaitis Rehabilitation and Skilled Care, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Ready to learn more? Contact us at (860) 928-7976 to schedule a tour. Let’s work together to find the best path forward for your loved one.
