Holiday Visits: Important Health Signs to Watch for in Aging Parents

Adult children who live far away or only see their aging parents a few times a year may find it difficult to know exactly what’s going on in their loved ones’ daily life. If your parents still live in their own home, this coming holiday season is a good time to assess their safety and figure out what to do if the time comes when your parents can’t live alone. If, before your senior health check during the holidays, you have suspicions about their ability to care for themselves, here’s what to look for the next time you see them.

Signs Your Parents Can No Longer Live Alone

How can you tell when your parents need help? The next time you see them in person, pay special attention to their home environment and look for anything that seems abnormal. This is also a good time to gently discuss their plans for the future, including housing options and hiring additional care, if needed. Here are the health signs to look for in aging parents over the holidays:

• Sudden weight loss. If you notice your parent has lost weight, it could be a sign that they’re struggling to prepare their meals and eat well. Sudden weight loss can also signal more serious health concerns that may need to be addressed with their doctor.
• Medication management. The next time you visit your loved one’s home, check their medications for any expired pill bottles and look for signs of mismanagement. If their medications are spread out throughout the home, are sitting loose on the countertops, or if you notice your parent taking them incorrectly, it could be a sign that they need additional care.
• Safety and mobility at home. Pay special attention to your loved one’s ability to get around. Are they experiencing pain that you didn’t notice the last time you visited? Are they having issues getting to the bathroom, out of the bed, or up from a chair? If you’re wondering, “How can I help my parents safely stay in their home?” you may consider installing grab bars and encouraging them to use mobility aids and an emergency response system.
• Personal hygiene. Is your loved one ignoring their personal hygiene? An unkempt physical appearance, body odor, or soiled clothing can be a sign that they’re unable to take care of themselves without additional support.
• Home environment. What does their home look like? Is there expired food in the fridge? Are there fall hazards around the home? If your parent’s home is in disarray, it’s very likely they’re struggling to keep up with their home’s upkeep.
• Financial management. Look for stacks of unopened mail, past-due bills, and unopened envelopes from creditors or charities you don’t recognize. This can be a sign your loved one is no longer able to make sound financial decisions. This type of spending can rapidly drive your loved one into debt, so it’s crucial to address the problem as soon as you notice the signs.
• Driving. Are your parents still driving safely? Take a look at their vehicle and see if you notice new dings or scratches. If your loved one has gotten lost while driving to familiar destinations, it could be time to coordinate an alternative means of transportation for doctor appointments, grocery shopping, and other errands.
• Socialization. Are your parents beginning to withdraw from their routine social activities? Are they isolated from others because they’re unable or unwilling to leave their home? If your loved one is showing signs of depression or social withdrawal, this could signal other major health concerns.

How to Talk to Your Aging Parents About Getting Help

Talking with your parents about your concerns can be overwhelming and knowing where to start can feel impossible. However, helping them doesn’t have to be that difficult. When you’re trying to figure out how to talk to your parents about moving into senior living like Santa Marta, instead of surprising them, gently voice your concerns and schedule a time to discuss their options. Always lead with empathy and practice listening to their needs, worries, and desires. It’s also a good idea to come prepared with community living options. You may even consider touring a few communities on your family member’s behalf to make the process seem less overwhelming. Here are some ways to get the conversation started:

• Do you feel safe in your home?
• What could you use help with on a daily basis?
• What does your ideal living situation look like?
• Where would you like to live?
• What are your thoughts on exploring senior living communities?

An Engaging Lifestyle for Them. Peace of Mind for You.

When someone you love is having difficulty living alone, it causes stress for the entire family. If you have senior care concerns after the holidays, we’re here to help. If you’re exploring your senior living options, consider at Santa Marta. We offer a full range of lifestyle including independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation. To learn more, contact one of our helpful senior living counselors.