Warning Signs: Does Your Elderly Parent Need Help at Home?

Many elderly parents prefer to live out the last stage of life in their own homes. Most are very capable of managing well, but as time goes on warning signals may develop indicating that help at home is required.

You may notice your parent exhibiting some of the behaviors noted below and if so, it's advisable to investigate further and determine what action should be taken.

Weight loss or observed poor nutrition may signal loss of appetite or inability to get to the grocery store.

Poor hygiene, dirty clothes, a home in disarray may indicate loss of interest or loss of physical ability to manage household chores.

Confusion about medications, when to take them, what to take, forgetting to refill prescriptions are warning signs not to be taken lightly. Proper prescription management is a priority.

Repeated falls are a sign that stability, frailty, balance, vision, or other conditions are present. Falling and fear of falling creates anxiety for your parent living alone -- and for the family that worries.

Increased fatigue and lack of energy. When small tasks cause undue fatigue or demand too much energy your parent may stop doing them altogether; help in the home is needed.

Behavioral changes, mood swings, irritability are commonly experienced by elderly persons. Getting help at home improves quality of life, and may reduce overwhelming feelings of helplessness or frustration.

Forgetting to pay bills, missing appointments, or poor financial decisions may indicate that your elderly parent is no longer fully capable of managing alone.

When an elderly parent is introduced to the idea of moving in with a relative or into an assisted living facility, it is often met with firm resistance. If so, then getting help at home may be enough for your parent to enjoy a better quality of life.

A Geriatric Care Manager can help you navigate your way through the options. Contact our caregivers for a complimentary consultation.