The holidays are a busy time! The calendar quickly fills up with family festivities and parties. This time of togetherness can provide a good opportunity to observe how your aging parents are managing their day-to-day life. Here’s what to look for when spending time with your loved ones to best assess if they would benefit from additional support. 

1. Home Upkeep:

• Home maintenance: Is the house tidy and well-kept, or are there signs of things being neglected, like piled-up mail or unfinished repairs?
• Meal preparation: Are they cooking regular meals, or is the refrigerator sparsely stocked? Are there expired items or signs they’re struggling with meal preparation?
• Personal care: Pay attention to their appearance. Are they keeping up with bathing and dressing?

2. Managing Everyday Activities:

• Mobility: Assess how easily they move around the house. Are they having difficulty with stairs, getting in and out of chairs, or walking for short distances?
• Medication management: Make sure they are keeping track of their medications. Are pill boxes organized, or are medications scattered and potentially missed?
• Cognitive skills: Are they following conversations, remembering appointments, and managing finances without difficulty? Are there any signs of confusion or forgetfulness?

3. Socialization and Engagement:

• Social interaction: Take note if your loved one is engaging in conversations and participating in family activities. Or are they more withdrawn than usual? 
• Mood: Be aware of significant changes in their mood, such as increased sadness, anxiety, or irritability.
• Hobbies and interests: Check to see if they are still pursuing hobbies and activities they enjoy. 

4. Safety:

• Driving: If they’re still driving, observe their driving habits. Are they confident and alert behind the wheel?
• Falls: Have they had any recent falls or near falls? Are they showing any signs of unsteadiness or difficulty with balance?
• Home safety: Are there any potential hazards in the home, such as steep stairs or loose rugs, that could increase their risk of falls or accidents?

Next Steps:

The holidays can be a time of joy and togetherness, but they can also reveal subtle signs that our aging parents may need more help. By being observant and proactive, you can ensure they receive the care and support they need to live fulfilling lives.

Have questions about senior living options or how to best support your aging parents? We’re here to help! Contact us today.

Moving to a senior living community is an exciting new chapter! It’s a chance to simplify your life, connect with others, and enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle. This room-by-room packing checklist will help you prepare for your move and ensure you have everything you need to feel comfortable and at home in your new surroundings.

Bedroom:

• Clothing: Pack a variety of clothes for everyday wear, relaxing at night, and special occasions.
• Bedding: Bring your favorite sheets, blankets, pillows, and a mattress pad for a good night’s sleep.
• Make it Personal: Add your personal touch to your new space with photos of loved ones, artwork, and décor.
• Nightstand Essentials: An alarm clock, reading lamp, and nightlight are always useful to have close by.
• Important Documents: Keep important documents like your ID, insurance cards, medical records, and financial paperwork organized and easily accessible.

Bathroom:

• Toiletries: Pack all your essential toiletries together in one box: shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothbrush, medications, and eyeglasses.
  • Keep it Within Reach: This toiletries box should be kept separate and easily accessible, not packed away in the moving truck.
• Bathroom Basics: Don’t forget items like a soap dish, toothbrush holder, non-slip bath mat, and a wastebasket.
• Comfort Items: Bring bath towels, a comfortable bathrobe, and non-slip slippers.

Living Room:

• Create a Relaxing Space: Bring cozy throw blankets, lamps, and your favorite furniture pieces, such as a sofa or loveseat, recliner, coffee table, and end tables.
• Entertainment: Pack your favorite books, magazines, games, or craft supplies, along with your TV, radio, laptop/tablet, and cell phone.
• Cherished Memories: Display your treasured family photos, keepsakes, and décor that brings you joy.

Kitchen:

• Dining Essentials: Pack a few sets of dishes, cutlery, and glassware for enjoying meals and snacks in your new home.
• Appliances: A small coffee maker or toaster oven can be handy for preparing quick meals and beverages.
• Pantry Staples: Don’t forget your favorite coffee, tea, and snacks!

Tips for a Smooth Transition:

• Declutter and Downsize: Before packing, take the time to declutter and donate or discard items you no longer need or use.
• Pack What You Love: Walk through your home and choose only the items you truly want, need, and have space for in your new residence.
• Label Everything: Clearly label each box with the room it belongs to and its contents.
• “First Night” Box: Pack a separate box with essential items like toiletries, medications, a change of clothes, and a phone charger.

Ready to embrace your new home? Schedule a tour at Village of Meyerland today! We’d be delighted to show you around and answer any questions you may have about making our community your new home.