They get lost going to familiar places · 4.Recognizing the warning signs that our aging parents may need additional support is the first step in ensuring their well-being. Common signs include changes in personal hygiene and appearance, memory lapses and forgetfulness, decreased mobility, and increased falls. Being aware of these signs is vital because they can significantly affect an older person's ability to live independently. For example, if an older person is having difficulty doing daily tasks, such as cleaning, cooking, or bathing, they may need help maintaining their current living conditions. Look for signs of deteriorating physical acuity, loss of interest in hobbies or other activities, poor grooming habits, etc.
The following sections will dive deeper into these warning signs and provide information on how families can help their elderly loved ones. Consider implementing a reminder system, maintaining an organized medication system, and talking to your healthcare provider about the benefits and risks of medications to help your elderly loved one manage their finances. If your elderly loved one has tripped or fallen while living alone, don't wait any longer to find out what will happen next. Ultimately, finding the ideal option with regard to care should depend on a personal decision between older people and their family members.
Common signs of neglect of personal hygiene include body odor, dirty clothes, and bad breath. Proper medication administration is crucial for the safety and well-being of older people living alone. Consider hiring a cleaning service or a meal delivery service to help ease your loved one's burden. Consulting with a health professional to determine what is the best option for the needs and preferences of your elderly loved one is essential when considering these care options. Neglect of household and garden tasks may be a sign that an older person is struggling to maintain their home and may need additional support.
Older adults who suffer from memory problems like these may be in the early stages of dementia or Alzheimer's disease, meaning it's no longer safe for them to live alone. We may feel a little tired after an entire day running errands, but an older parent who gets so tired that he can't complete one or two of these necessary tasks could indicate that he needs more organized and regular help. Older people who should no longer live alone are prone to not being able to cook enough, either because of tiredness, physical difficulties or problems such as Alzheimer's. Let them know that even though they need more help, they can maintain their independence with the right care plan, no matter where they live.
If your family member lives alone, it's non-negotiable to be alert against scams, such as fraud related to home repairs and charitable works, lotteries, sweepstakes, identity theft schemes and even tricks of Medicare.
