As your parents grow older, you are probably beginning to worry more about their safety at home. Most seniors want to continue to lead an active lifestyle while staying in their homes. But are they safe in their own house?
Ten warning signs your parent may need help at home.
Sometimes it can be difficult for a parent to admit he might need help. It is often up to you to see the warning signs. Here are 10 warning signs your parent may be struggling at home:
- Confusion when performing common tasks;
- Missing appointments and forgetting plans;
- A drastic change in appearance, including lacking interest in personal appearance;
- Infrequent showering and poor personal hygiene;
- Piles of unwashed laundry or wear the same outfit everyday;
- Bruises or cuts your parent does not want to, or cant, explain;
- Disinterest in a favorite hobby or activity;
- Spoiled food or an empty refrigerator;
- Unpaid bills or unopened mail, and
- Changing moods or unusual behavior.
What should you do if you think your parent needs help at home?
If you suspect that your parent needs extra help at home, you have to say something. Although it is often a difficult, stressful conversation for both of you, remaining silent is not an option.
When you speak with your parent, approach the conversation with compassion and understanding. Most likely, your parent's biggest fear is losing his independence, and becoming a burden to you and your family. Reassure your parent you are simply concerned about his health because you love him, and that both of you will decide the next steps together.
Encourage your parent to be open and honest about any physical or mental changes she is experiencing. Discuss the challenges your parent is having with living alone, and how you can help. Ask your parent if she thinks she might benefit from professional home care. Remember to end the conversation positively, and to tell her you are always available to help.
The initial conversation is just the first step in deciding if your parent needs more at-home care. Over the next few weeks keep a close eye on your parent, and have follow-up conversations to figure out the best care option.
Make it easier for your parent to stay in his home with or without home care. Installing home safety products will help keep your loved one safer. Home Freedom can provide a free consultation to suggest the best home safety products for your parent's needs.