The holidays are filled with traditions, laughter, and time spent reconnecting with the people who matter most. For many families, these moments also bring clarity – especially when visiting aging parents. Subtle changes in a loved one’s behavior, routines, or physical abilities often become more noticeable during extended holiday visits.
At Astoria Senior Living & Memory Care, with communities in Oakdale, California and Omaha, Nebraska, we understand how emotional it can be to realize a parent may need additional support. Early awareness is one of the most meaningful gifts you can give. It helps protect your loved one’s safety and opens the door to supportive options like Assisted Living or Memory Care, depending on their needs.
Signs It May Be Time to Consider Assisted Living
While every family’s situation is different, certain signs are common as older adults begin needing daily support. During your visits this season, watch for:
Changes in hygiene or appearance
Wearing the same clothes repeatedly, skipping showers, or seeming less groomed may indicate difficulty managing personal care.
Weight loss or poor nutrition
A refrigerator filled with expired items, spoiled food, or little to no meal preparation may suggest challenges with cooking or remembering to eat.
Clutter or unsafe living conditions
Stacks of mail, laundry buildup, or tripping hazards could signal that managing the home has become overwhelming.
Forgetfulness or confusion
Unpaid bills, missed appointments, misplaced items, or repeating questions may be early indicators of cognitive changes.
Mood or behavior changes
Increased irritability, sadness, anxiety, or withdrawal from normal activities can point to loneliness or depression.
Medication management challenges
Missed doses or confusion about prescriptions can put health at risk.
Mobility or balance issues
Trouble walking, difficulty standing up, or unexplained bruises may indicate an increased fall risk.
Astoria’s Assisted Living services can provide the daily support, social connection, and peace of mind your loved one needs—while helping them maintain dignity and independence.
When Memory Concerns Are Present
If your loved one is showing signs of memory loss, the winter months can pose additional challenges. Cold weather, wandering, leaving appliances on, or forgetting meals can become serious safety concerns.
Both Astoria Oakdale and Astoria Omaha offer dedicated Memory Care designed specifically for individuals living with Alzheimer’s or dementia. These neighborhoods provide:
- Safe and secure environments
- Structured daily routines
- Activities that inspire purpose and joy
- Compassionate caregivers trained in dementia care
- Personalized support based on each resident’s abilities and preferences
Families can feel confident knowing their loved one is surrounded by understanding, connection, and specialized care.
Support for Families in Oakdale, CA & Omaha, NE
Having conversations about senior living can be difficult, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. Whether your loved one needs a little extra help or full-time memory support, Astoria Senior Living & Memory Care is here to guide families with honesty, compassion, and clarity.
Our communities in Oakdale and Omaha offer the safety, social connection, and expert care older adults need to thrive.
Let’s Start the Conversation
This holiday season, give your loved one the gift of awareness – and the peace of mind that comes with knowing support is available.
To learn more about Assisted Living or Memory Care at Astoria, please contact the location nearest you:
- Astoria Oakdale (Assisted Living & Memory Care) – 209-322-2292
- Astoria Omaha (Assisted Living & Memory Care) – 402-393-7313
We’re here to answer questions, provide guidance, and help your family take the next step with confidence. Contact us online to learn more.