Over the holidays, 53 million Americans will be traveling. For many, it may be the first time in two years that their families have been able to visit elderly loved ones. This is an important chance to look for signs that these individuals, especially those who live alone, may need additional help or attention with their tasks of daily living.
The Mansions at Sandy Springs Assisted Living and Memory Care in Peachtree Corners has shared a checklist, created by the geriatric specialists at The Mansions, with signs to watch for in your loved ones. Keep in mind that it may be necessary to seek expert help with broaching sensitive subjects, such as driving a car, medication management or personal hygiene.
Are Mom and Dad OK?
What to Look for this Holiday Season
- Are your parents able to perform the basics? Dressing, eating, toileting, personal grooming and mobility.
- Do your parents have unopened mail? Unopened mail and unpaid bills can be a sign of cognitive impairment, financial problems or vision loss.
- Do you see damage to your parents’ garage or vehicles? If so, it may be time to have “the talk.”
- How do your parents look? Check for noticeable changes in appearance, such as wearing the same clothes over and over, weight gain or loss, dirty clothes or unwashed hair.
- Is your parents’ home as clean as it was last time you visited? Mildew and mold, excessive clutter and spoiled food are signs that your parents may need another set of hands and eyes to keep their home clean and safe.
- Look in the pantry and the refrigerator. Is it stocked? Are foods expired? Is the food there nutritious or are you parents frequently eating cereal, sandwiches and processed microwave foods?
- Are your parents taking their medication? Be sure to check for expired medications, unopened bottles or past due refills. Check supplements for expiration dates, also.
- Do your parents have any unexplained bruises or other injuries? Senior injuries often occur due to accidental falls or running into furniture. A significant number of injuries can be a sign your parent is struggling with mobility.
- Have you noticed any mood swings or personality changes? Depression and anxiety are common in seniors, especially during the holiday season. Take special note to watch for irritability and forgetfulness.
If you’ve ticked a box or two, it may be time to seek advice from experts and determine if now is the time to consider a move to assisted living.
The Mansions has three assisted living and memory care facilities in the area: The Mansions locations at Alpharetta, The Mansions at Gwinnett Park in Lawrenceville, and The Mansions at Sandy Springs in Peachtree Corners. Visit MansionsSeniorLiving.com to learn more.
