How Do You Know?
Do your parents or loved ones need help? How Do You Know?
How do you know if your parents need help?
Sometimes older people seem perfectly capable of running their own lives and homes, however they are often reluctant to admit they need help. So, how do you know when it is time to provide you loved ones with in home care? We’ve listed a few warning signs that might indicate a parent could use some extra assistance. These suggestions are not intended as a complete list, nor are they a guide for seeking medical advice. However, they are common symptoms that an older individual may need a helping hand at home.
Inadequate Meals and Nutrition
It is very common for older individuals to lose interest in preparing well-balanced, nutritious meals, especially if they live alone. Good nutrition is just as important to their overall health and well-being as it is to a growing child. Discuss with your parent ways you can help ensure nutritional needs are being met.
A diminished sense of taste and smell or failing eyesight are common occurrences of aging. Therefore, you may find unusual amounts of spoiled food in your parent’s refrigerator. With just one or two people in the house, staple food supplies are often kept beyond their recommended use. It’s important this situation be brought under control, as consuming this food could result in serious health repercussions.
Unopened or Piled-up Bills
Some reasons bills may go unpaid include failing eyesight, recurring memory lapses, and hampered writing abilities. Older people often have difficulty writing legibly, especially in the confined spaces on a check. They may even be confused by specific billing procedures. You can discuss the situation with your parent and ask if they would like help in sorting out the bills.
Recurring Memory Lapses
Many older individuals can remember events that took place 30 years ago with more clarity than what they did yesterday. Memory lapses are not uncommon, but when they interfere with taking medication properly and on time, or result in forgetting to turn the stove off or other potentially serious risks, daily assistance may be needed. They can also be warning signs of more serious issues such as Alzheimer’s.
Frequent Falls
If your parent seems to be falling, make sure he or she has a complete physical examination. Many illnesses, as well as medication side effects, may be causing dizziness or a lack of balance. A doctor may recommend using a cane or walker, or even suggest personal assistance in the home as an appropriate solution. You might also check your parent’s home for loose rugs, poor lighting, and slippery or uneven floor surfaces which can contribute to the problem.
Lack of Interest or Feeling “Down”
Social interaction and companionship is more important than ever in an older parent’s life, yet busy adult children often forget that their parent’s circle of family and friends shrinks considerably with the passing years. Although feeling “down” at times is a very normal occurrence, continuation of this condition could be symptomatic of more serious health problems. While the family doctor should be consulted, in most cases simply encouraging your parent to be involved in outside activities may help relieve their loneliness and rejuvenate their interests and enjoyment of life. If they are home-bound, obtaining companion care services for them be a step in the right direction.
Unsafe Driving
Some of the effects of aging include a natural slowing of reflexes, agility, and a decline in eyesight. Many older individuals continue to operate an automobile – even though they may be endangering themselves and others – because they fear losing their independence. If you feel your parent is no longer able to drive safely, discuss the issue openly with him/her. Let your parent know that transportation needs can be met in other ways. Some communities offer transportation to specific locations (such as medical clinics, community facilities, etc.) for older individuals. Many home health care services also include transporting and accompanying an individual to appointments, social or religious events, shopping, etc. as part of their service.
A Marked Change in Behavior Patterns
Your mother has always kept a spotless home, but now you notice dishes piling up in the sink. Your father has never missed a Sunday service, now he no longer goes to church. These are examples of behavior changes that might indicate it is time for a frank and open discussion with your parent. Many times it is simply a matter of tasks or routines becoming too difficult or tiring for them to perform. Arranging for help in the home or for transportation to and from activities can be the solution. However, a radical, unexplained change in behavior or mood that persists should be discussed with a doctor as soon as possible.
Look for Clues in Conversation
When talking to your parent, listen for clues that may suggest some extra help is needed. Most parents don’t want to burden adult children with their problems. Repeated references to a particular concern, or something that causes them great difficulty, may be their way of reaching out for help. Close friends or neighbors can also provide valuable insights into any problems your parent may have in coping with day-to-day activities.
If you think you or a loved one is in need of extra assistance contact us today for a free no-obligation assessment. Call Toll Free: (800) 781-6004
