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 Or are they more withdrawn than usual?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.