Most people as they age want to stay independent and remain in their own homes. This is no longer just a dream. There are many services now available to help elders age in place. As a result, most people can remain independent in their own homes far longer than in the past. The key is to know when an elderly loved one is beginning to need some help.
Understanding that aging is a continuum requiring some adjustments is the first step in assuring that elders can maintain the independence they so desperately want. In most instances, a decline in their ability to perform small, daily activities is usually the first sign that a person’s needs are changing. Here are some warning signs that an aging loved one may need some help.
- Grocery Shopping and Meal Preparation
- Is the refrigerator empty? Is food old or moldy? Is basic nutrition being ignored? Are meals being skipped?
- Housework
- Is there a change in the way the house is being kept? Is the once clean and tidy home showing signs of neglect?
- Transportation
- Is the individual having “close calls” or accidents? Are people honking? Do they act confused in traffic? Do they drive too slowly?
- Personal Hygiene
- Is the person wearing the same clothes day after day? Are clothes clean? Does he/she still care about grooming – showering, washing hair, etc.
- Money Management
- Are bills piling up? Are they being paid on a timely basis?
- Medication
- Does your loved one remember to take daily medication on schedule and as directed?
These very common signs of aging are, in and of themselves, not cause for alarm. Yet once the number of signs starts to increase, family members should develop a strategy for making sure their loved ones needs are being met. Assistance with any of these tasks is widely available – whether it be from family, friends, neighbors or professional caregivers. It is comforting to know that the majority of people, with just a little bit of help, can retain their independence and continue to age in place.
Being mindful of the first initial signs of aging allows families and loved ones to help the elderly maintain their independence and quality of life at home – right where they want to be.
Tags: Aging, Caregiving, challenges of aging