What to Look for When Visiting Your Independent Elderly Parents
In the summertime, there is more family activity – from visiting to family reunions, and family vacations. Often these have become routine and regular outings for the group. However, as one ages it can become more difficult to keep up and participate like before.
There are things to look for when you are visiting to see if the activity planned will be appropriate for them this time. Be observant of the following things; you can find out a lot just by observation and casual conversation.
- Check the refrigerator to see if there are fresh foods or if the food has now become more of a ready-made, frozen or microwavable food.
- Take a look at their bedroom and see if the laundry is being kept up or if the house cleaning is up to par.
- Do they seem less physical activity or more tired than usual?
- Is there more confusion than the last time you met?
- Does it seem like they are using poor judgment when making a decision?
If one or more of these are present you may need to get involved and ask detailed questions to find out what else is going on. These are signs that they need help, but they might not want to say anything or they may not be aware of the change.
If you have questions or concerns you can call us. We can guide you to solutions that can help improve the situation.
