How would you know if your aging parent needs help? A few telltale signs give a strong indication of whether or not you need to step in and assist. We've listed the most frequently reported signs by professionals to help you determine if the time is right to intervene.
Remember, no one knows your aging parent better than you, so you'll be in the best position to judge what is normal behavior and what falls outside the norm.
1. Forgetting to pay bills on time
If collection agencies are starting to call, and the mailbox is full of late payment notices or penalties due to missed payments, it may signify that your aging parent needs help.
2. Changes in mood or extreme mood swings
Have they started expressing depressive behavior and having generally low levels of energy? Have you noticed them not smiling like they used to?
3. Cluttered, dirty, or disorganized house
Is the home starting to appear different? Are appliances and fixtures starting to break without getting necessary repairs? Have they stopped cooking meals altogether?
4. Uncertainty when performing familiar and simple tasks
If everyday tasks such as doing the laundry or packing the dishwasher are falling to the wayside, it may signify that your aging parent needs help.
5. Physical appearance is starting to deteriorate
Is your aging parent regularly neglecting their appearance? Are their clothes starting to look tattered and dirty?
6. Keeping groceries long after the expiry date
Is expired food or products causing the house or fridge to smell?
7. Increased forgetfulness
Are they constantly searching for misplaced keys, a wallet, or other items? Have they started missing important appointments?
8. Infrequent or improper medication management
Are you noticing full bottles of prescription pills? Are they complaining of symptoms due to not taking chronic medication as prescribed?
9. Leaving house or yard maintenance unattended
Has the trash started piling up? Have the grass or weeds started growing uncontrollably?
10. Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed
Can they recall the last time they participated in an activity they loved?
11. Poor eating habits or sudden weight loss
Are they eating considerably less or consuming only fast food or prepackaged meals?
12. Neglecting personal hygiene
Have you noticed an obvious body odor or bad breath? Are they washing and combing their hair frequently?
13. Trouble getting up from a seated position
Are you observing strain when your aging parent needs to get in or out of a chair, the bath, or the car?
14. Unexplained bruises or frequent injuries
Are they exhibiting bruises that seem to have no logical explanation, or are you noticing more falls or injuries of late?
15. Noticeable damage or dents to their car
Are fender benders or minor scratches appearing more often on their car's exterior? Have you noticed an increase in minor accidents?
If you're at a loss for what your next step needs to be, reach out to us at Options for Senior Living for a complimentary consultation. Call 602-845-1320.
