Do Your Aging Parents Need More Help at Home?

As kids, our parents protected and took care of us. However, the roles can become reversed as many adult children start caring for their aging parents.

About 80% of seniors believe remaining in their homes for as long as possible is essential. As such, their children want to help them stay there. Unfortunately, this could be a safety risk. Dementia, arthritis, and other medical issues can significantly impact a senior’s quality of life and well-being.

Adult children must know the warning signs that their elderly parents need more help. Here are five signs to watch out for and how to help your mom or dad stay healthy and happy at home.

1. Sudden Home Environment Changes

Visiting your parents and finding their usually tidy house in disarray can be a shock. Dirty dishes, piles of garbage, and rotten food in the fridge could be signs that your parents need assistance. They might be experiencing cognitive health problems or limited mobility that keeps them from completing daily tasks they typically wouldn’t ever forget about.

2. Medication Mismanagement

It’s not uncommon for older adults to be taking multiple medications. This can make it challenging for seniors to manage their medicine correctly. If your mom forgets to take her meds or your dad hasn’t filled his prescription in a month, hiring an in-home caregiver could be a good option. These friendly professionals can remind your parents to take their medication and refill their prescriptions.

3. Feelings of Loneliness

While older adults want to see their children and grandkids as much as possible, it can be challenging for seniors to travel. Seniors that don’t spend enough time with their families might feel lonely or isolated. This is especially true if your parent is a widow.

Have you noticed sudden changes in your mother’s or father's mood? Hiring a companion caregiver can alleviate feelings of depression and loneliness. Your parents will have somebody to talk to. This makes their day brighter.

4. Weight Loss or Gain

A well-balanced diet keeps seniors healthy. But many older adults might need help grocery shopping or preparing nutritious meals. A poor diet could be to blame if your parents have lost or gained weight. It could also be a sign of an underlying medical condition.

If possible, schedule a visit with your parent’s doctor and accompany them to the appointment. If the culprit is inadequate nutrition, consider hiring an in-home caregiver. This person can help your mom or dad prepare meals, ensuring they maintain a healthy weight and feel their best.

5. Unpaid Bills

Late payments, bounced checks and expired vehicle registrations could be red flags. Gently ask your parents about their unpaid bills. Remain patient if they become confrontational or upset. If you think this is a sign of dementia, schedule an appointment with a medical professional as soon as possible.

Get Your Parents the Support They Need and Deserve

If your elderly parent needs extra help, call Visiting Angels of Littleton, CO, today. Our in-home caregivers can assist with medication management, meal preparation, bathing, grooming, transportation, light housekeeping, and more.