Arista Wins Top Workplaces AwardIt’s hard for our aging parents to admit they need help, because this could result in a loss of independence. At Arista Home Care, we want to make sure they maintain their dignity and freedom. We respect their independence and encourage as much self-reliance as they are capable of safely doing.
Signs To Look For
Maybe you are a long distance caregiver and you will be seeing your Mom or Dad for the first time in a while over the holidays. If so, you may want to look for key signs that they may need a little help. In fact, that’s what adult children of aging parents need to do on a regular basis – watch for telltale signs that their parents’ health and lifestyle may be deteriorating.
Here are some signs to look for that indicate it may be time for a little help around the house:
- Difficulty with walking, balancing or mobility, you may see them “furniture surfing”
- Mail piling up and past due bills
- Weight loss or weight gain
- Little or no food in the refrigerator; also spoiled or expired food
- Forgetting to take medicines or forgetfulness in general
- Vision or hearing issues
- A dirty or cluttered house with laundry piling up and dirty dishes in the sink
- Trouble standing from a seated position
- Dents or scratches on the car, indicating difficulty driving
- Sloppy appearance or poor hygiene
- Reluctance to leave the house or visit friends
If you note any of these, talk to your parents openly and honestly about getting some help. They may be resistant at first and you may have to get some reinforcement from doctors, family, or friends. Assure them that you have their best interests in mind and are concerned about their health and safety. Particularly assure them that you want to help them stay in their home as long as safely possible. Getting a little help today will keep them healthy and independent.
Remember, the best gifts don’t come from a store … they come from the heart!
