Look For These Warning Signs When You Are Home For the Holidays

As we all gather with family, parents, and senior loved ones it is common to be surprised by a sudden change in appearance.  Perhaps your father's normally pristine hair is disheveled, and his face unshaven.  Maybe your mother's makeup is a mess, or she looks thin, or worse, there is a bruise on her forehead.

Sometimes the age related decline is not so obvious.  Pay attention to subtle changes as you gather with your family to assess whether or not more care is needed.

Warning Signs that Home Care Is Needed:

• Decline in personal hygiene.
• Weight loss
• Loss of interest in favorite activities or hobbies - and other signs of depression.
• Difficulty with balance or mobility
• Confusion while doing once familiar tasks
• Difficulty finding words.  Might be on the tip of their tounge but they cannot express it.
• Pills on the floor, pills still in the pill box indicating missed doses. Confusion about proper dosage for each medication.
• Messy house, clutter, dishes piled up

All of these are subtle signs that a bit more care may be needed so that your loved one can continue to age in place.  While most people are resistant or reluctant to accept help, it can make all the difference in staying healthy and being able to remain independent for longer.

When the signs of senior care needs show themselves, it is important to not make assumptions about why things have changed or blame the senior. It is essential to keep an open mind and not point fingers at one another.

Here are a few ideas for conversation starters:

"I love you very much and I am worried about your safety and well being.  I know someone who can help us with ideas to get around the house easier and manage your medications better.  May I make an appointment for her to come over and meet with us?"

"Lately I've noticed that the housework isn't being done the way you like it. What do you think about hiring someone to handle the shopping, laundry, and light housekeeping a few times a week so you don't have tire yourself out doing housework?"

More talking tips...

Often it helps to have an assessment from a professional Geriatric Care Manager.  We will provide a basic free in home safety assesment at your convenience and offer tips and suggestions on how to age in place safely for the long haul.