Top Signs Your Aging Parent Might Need More Assistance

Your parents – they cared for you and now you’re helping them. They live independently but you’re noticing things are changing, and you’re concerned about them being alone. Family caregivers can only do so much. Here are some signs that your aging parents who are living on their own might benefit greatly from moving to a community that offers assisted living.

1. Falling Behind on Upkeep of Their Home

Taking care of a home is a big job. Cleaning and maintenance can become overwhelming for your aging parent. You may notice things aren’t getting done, such as general upkeep, cleaning and yardwork, or perhaps things that are broken are never repaired. These can affect home safety and may be signs that taking care of a home has become too much and your aging parents need help.

2. Bills Not Being Paid

They’ve always been responsible and diligent with their finances, but now you’ve noticed bills have gone unpaid. Maybe you’ve even found notices from debt collectors.

3. Mood Swings

Your once calm and happy parent is now moody and easily angered. This could be a sign that something’s not right – either physically or mentally. It’s time to consult your parent’s health care provider.

4. Lack of Self-Care

Does your aging parent, who once took pride and care in their appearance, now look disheveled and unclean? Bathing and getting dressed for the day are important activities of daily living. Not doing these tasks could be a sign of depression or dementia.

5. Low Energy

They seem tired all the time. Your parent is spending more time sleeping and may even spend most of the day in bed. This could be a symptom of a physical or mental issue. Talk with their health care provider.

6. Forgetfulness

Everyone has memory issues from time to time, but if your parent is forgetting things often, including important events, it may be time to see a health care professional for an evaluation.

7. Mismanaging Medication

Is your aging parent having a hard time remembering when to – or if – they took prescribed medications? This can be serious, especially if they’re on heart medication or are insulin-dependent.

8. No Interest in Doing Things Once Loved

If your once active parent is no longer participating in hobbies or socializing, it may be time for a change. They may miss being around people their own age and shared interests.

9. Problems with Food

Perhaps you’ve noticed they’ve lost weight and/or interest in foods they once loved. The refrigerator is bare, dirty, or has food well past the expiration date. Mental and physical health problems could lead to a loss of appetite or just forgetting to eat. This can all lead to malnutrition.

10. Frequent or Unexplained Injuries

Sure, we all have minor accidents, but you should be concerned if you notice your parent has scratches, bumps, or bruises frequently, and/or they can’t recall how they happened.

What to Do When You Believe Your Parent Shouldn’t Be Aging in Place at Home

Start the conversation with understanding. Let your parent know your concern comes from a place of love. Explain that you only want what’s best and safest for them. If you’re concerned about their health – and if you haven’t been accompanying them to their doctor appointments – start there. An article in Harvard Health Publishing talks about the importance of gathering medical information and approval from your parents prior to visiting the doctor.

If it is indeed time for your parents to move out of their home. Look for all the positive aspects of such a move. For example, they’ll have more time and opportunities to socialize and do things that are enjoyable instead of worrying about and caring for a home.

Finding the Perfect Place for Your Parent to Live

Finding a place that’s a great fit for your parent is key. Essex Meadows provides a home where your parent can get the additional assistance needed without sacrificing their privacy or independence. Our Eight Dimensions of Wellness touches on all of the aspects to help your parent live their best life. For more information about our assisted living community in Essex, Connecticut, or higher levels of care, contact our team today! We’ll get back with you as soon as possible!