At Daystar Retirement Village, we talk with families all the time who are trying to make difficult decisions about how to best care for their loved one, or how to ensure that their loved one is getting the care he or she needs.
Incremental changes over time can be easy to miss, which sometimes makes it difficult for adult children to notice when their parents have moved into a stage of life when they need a full-time caregiver.
Sometimes a temporary setback can seem momentous, but other times a significant decline can be overlooked because we don’t want to see it.
If you are starting to see any of the following signs, it’s likely that your loved one’s health and safety are at risk.
Decrease in Attention to Personal Care
Dirty clothes and a lack of personal grooming are signs that your loved one may require help.
Less Care Shown in Housekeeping
Sticky counters, dirty floors, stained carpets or spoiled food may mean your loved one needs help keeping up on household chores.
Dangerous Driving
If you’re concerned about your loved one’s driving, it’s time to start thinking about alternatives.
Loss of Mobility
Trouble walking up or down stairs, rising from chairs and entering and exiting vehicles are all signs of diminished mobility.
Decreased Appetite of Interest in Food and Cooking
If your loved one has shown increasing resistance to eating regular meals, or if their clothes have begun to sag off their bodies, it’s time to intervene. Here are some of the best foods for seniors.
Poor Medication Management
If your loved one is having trouble keeping track of medications, or taking the proper dosage at the proper time, his or her health is at risk.
Reduced Attention Toward Finances
If bills are going unpaid, or if your loved one is starting to spend money uncharacteristically, it might be time to step in. Be sure they are aware of common scamming techniques and how to prevent being taken advantage of.
Memory Loss
Some memory loss is simple forgetfulness, but if your loved one is forgetting important appointments or has trouble recognizing familiar people or places, it’s a sign that there is something else going on.
Depression
Moodiness, anxiety, insomnia and loss of interest in things people once loved are all signs of depression.
*Based on information from All Assisted Living Homes.
If your loved one is exhibiting any of these signs, it might be time to consider assisted living.
