Warning Signs That Seniors May Need More Help

How do you know if seniors are in need of assistance? Adult children living far from their elderly parents are more concerned about their safety and health than ever, as more families become dispersed geographically.

There are many questions about aging parents' psychological, physical, and social well-being. Adult children need to be aware of changes in their parent's routine, behavior and attitudes. Unfortunately, these changes are often not visible over the phone.

Here are some of the warning signs that indicate seniors may need more help:

Socially Withdrawn

Aging loved-ones may stop going out with their friends and avoid social outings. You may notice they are not engaging in conversation as much as they used to and/or they are watching more TV than usual. When you visit, you find they are lying around and have a lack of interest in activities. There can be many underlying reasons for this but if it goes on too long, it can lead to increased health risks.

Diminished Daily Activities

Your loved one may appear unkempt, wearing the same clothes daily and have less interest in their personal hygiene. They may have poor eating habits and appear to be losing weight. When you visit, you notice the house is unclean and there is excessive clutter around.

Inability to Manage Money

When you visit, you find unopened mail with past-due bills and checks that have not been cashed. When they go to a store, they forget to take enough money or checks with them and they are not keeping up with their paperwork like they used to.

Missed Appointments

They forgot to attend their last doctor's appointment. When asked, they make an excuse or try to dismiss it but you find out they missed more than one appointment in the past year. They have not had a haircut or shave in a while and they used to go regularly.

Odd Behaviors

You notice they are not keeping the same sleep schedule or they are sleeping all day. They may display paranoia with a trusted loved-one or be overly trusting with a tele-marketer. You may notice a lack of manners or inappropriate comments when out in public.

Medication Mix-ups

They insist they are taking their medications regularly but they are running out one medication early and have an over-abundance of another medication. Their prescription bottles are scattered about and you may see loose pills lying around.

What Can You Do?

Contact a Care Manager at 540-206-7758 to discuss your concerns and get guidance on the resources available in your area. Care Managers are experts in elder-care and can do a comprehensive assessment on your loved one or consult with you by phone.

To find out more visit: www.Roanokecaremanagement.com.