Most aging parents won’t tell you if they need help, or if they’re struggling with a challenge at home or with a health problem, they don’t want to burden you. But, if you’re observant, there are warning signs to watch for that will tell you there’s a problem. The following is information taken from an article featured on mayoclinic.com.
Are your parents losing weight for no reason?
An unexplained weight loss can indicate a number of things, including a serious health problem. Talk to your parent about scheduling a doctor’s appointment. But, look for other signs, as well. Maybe they’re having difficulty cooking…their eyesight is failing and they can’t read food labels or recipes, they can’t use the stove as well, or they can’t grasp simple tools to help make a meal. Or, maybe, they just don’t like eating alone.
Are your parents safe in their home?
Is their home becoming cluttered and harder to navigate? Are lights working, are dishes clean, is the yard cared for? If not, these are red flags that could mean they’re having trouble maintaining their home. Do they feel safe…have they had any falls or injured themselves in any way? Are there raised toilet seats in the bathroom and grab bars in the shower to make them feel more secure?
Are your parents taking care of themselves?
How is their appearance? Are they taking regular showers or baths, and wearing clean clothing? Failure to keep up with daily routines, including basic grooming, can indicate a health problem, or depression.
Are your parents having difficulty getting around?
Pay attention to how your parents are walking. Are they reluctant or unable to walk, even around the house? Are they unsteady on their feet, and concerned about falling? Are they in pain due to arthritis or osteoporosis? Many seniors hate using a cane or a walker, so they forego any kind of exercise, which can make them even less flexible, and will ultimately rob them of their ability to do anything for themselves.
Are your parents depressed?
Ask them how they’re feeling…do they seem withdrawn or blue? Are they still connecting with friends, are they taking part in activities, are they going to church on a regular basis? Short of being there every moment, talk about what you can do to help them stay connected.
There are solutions to all of these problems, but talking them out with your parents is the first, most important step.
For more information and resources regarding aging parents and health, check out www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/seniorshealth.html or contact us at Home Instead Senior Care at 661-254-8701.