What are the signs your aging parent needs help?
Growing up we see our parents as a superman/woman and consider them invincible. We get to a certain point in life where we realize that they are aging. After that point we come to realize they may need some extra help. How do you determine if they need additional support? As a caregiver, it can be difficult to determine when they need help and can no longer live alone.
Is it time to have the “Talk”
It is recommended that you talk with your parent about changing their living situation before the need arises. Putting together a plan for their future needs is best handled when they are still healthy. Aging is a fact of life and oftentimes the adult children are left to make these tough, life changing decisions. Most seniors are reluctant to accept help or admit they need help. This article from GoldenSherpa may be helpful when having the “talk” with your parent. Senior Perspective of Refusing Help
Sometimes the need for help is obvious, but more commonly, the signs are more subtle and accumulate gradually. Often times, you need to see your loved one more often to notice the subtle changes. Have a conversation with their friends or neighbors to see if they have noticed any changes.
US News proposes some red flags to help you recognize early:
1. Are they forgetting things?
2. Is the car dented, or are the side mirrors missing?
3. Are they reluctant to travel?
4. Are they losing weight even if they have a healthy appetite?
5. Does the fridge have spoiled food?
6. Are they withdrawing from their activities and groups of people?
7. Is the house messier than usual?
8. Are the unkempt?
9. Do they use furniture as a support when walking?
10. Have bills been forgotten?
11. Are they missing medications?
Here is a recent article from U.S. News assessing if your aging parent can still live at home, alone. U.S. News
You can find more information about how to identify the right time for senior care by clicking on this link “Identifying the Right Time”
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