You want to ensure that mom and dad are well taken care of in their senior years. Beyond making sure that their retirement plans are holding up and being sure to visit, you are also the best advocate for their health care. While the idea of getting home care or entering an assisted living situation might seem intimidating or unpleasant, there are certain signs that it might be time for a little more help.
Difficulty With Daily Tasks
Some seniors may start to have more difficulty with daily home and self care. If your parent seems to be wearing the same clothes every time you visit, is unable to care for the home or lawn, or has started falling back exclusively on microwave dinners, they may be in need of a little more help. If your parent used to be meticulous about housework but now seems to be allowing grime and clutter to build up, this may be another sign of struggling. Forgetting to take medication or taking it incorrectly are also a sign that it's time for help.
Changes in Health
Worsening health problems can also be a good reason to begin a senior care program. If your parent is falling more often, has significant weight loss or gain, unpleasant odors, slower recovery from colds or other illnesses, or a worsening chronic health problem then you should seriously consider finding help. Reduced mobility, such as difficulty walking, standing from a seated position, or difficulty with fine motor tasks, like tying a shoe, may all indicate a struggle in daily life. Elder care can help you maintain a healthcare plan and notice problems early.
Affected Mental State
Affected mental state may be one of the most significant reasons to get help. If your parent is frequently agitated, depressed, confused, or paranoid, they may no longer be able to live alone. Sundowning, becoming extremely agitated at the end of the day, can be a serious sign of Alzheimer's. Wandering, common in individuals with dementia, can lead to dangerous situations during times of inclement weather and traffic. Sudden mood swings are another sign of problems. Symptoms of depression and social withdrawal, such as a loss of interest in hobbies, not leaving the home, and a lack of companionship or friendship may also be issues that elder care centers could solve.
How Do You Know It's Time to Seek Elder Care?
Starting elder care is a big decision, and you may feel inclined to second guess yourself, especially if your parent is resistant to the idea. Consult the friends and other close family of your parent to get a wider perspective on how he or she is doing in daily life. Talk to your doctor about health concerns and care options. Consider having a social worker or geriatric care manager come evaluate the safety of home living for your parent.
It is also okay to consider your needs in this process. If being the caregiver for your parent has left you exhausted, frustrated, and burnt out, you may need the extra help too. Consider the strain that is currently on your family and how well everyone is managing the stress. Managing your own health, mental, emotional, and physical, is crucial to your ability to help your parent. It’s okay to seek professional help.
