Noticing the Signs: Does Your Loved One Need Help at Home?

Bethlehem PA

13 January, 2021

5:05 PM

Description

2020 was a year like no other. The COVID-19 pandemic continues to cause increased feelings of loneliness and isolation, especially in seniors. It’s important to know what to look out for and how you can help keep these feelings at bay. However, loneliness and isolation may not be the only changes the virus has wrought on your elderly loved ones’ lives.  Many seniors are deciding to age in place in the homes they love. This presents its own set of problems, especially since you may not be able to visit them as often as usual due to social distancing and stay-at-home orders. You may need to do some detective work to uncover possible signs that your loved ones need extra help around the home. Most home care providers will tell you that they’ve noticed a trend every January: an uptick in requests for in-home care. This typically happens because family members visit older loved ones during the holiday season and see signs that they may need assistance to remain safely at home.  Known as the “post-holiday reality check,” adult children realize that their mom or dad may not be doing as well with keeping on top of things. Some of the most common signs include: Weekly Pill Dispenser is Still Full Untidy Living Space Declining Personal Grooming and Hygiene Cabinets Aren’t Well Stocked Spoiled Food in Refrigerator Confusion and Forgetfulness Declining Driving Skills Frailty and Unsteadiness Unopened Mail Piling Up Unlocked Doors and Windows These signs can often be misinterpreted as a normal side effect of aging, but that’s not always the case. If you notice any signs that your loved one may need help, write down your concerns and discuss them with your sibling or other relatives. Collectively, you can develop a plan to bring your concerns to your elderly loved one and determine the next steps. It can be difficult to take the first step, but it’s been proven many times that home care can significantly improve seniors’ quality of life.  For information on Griswold Home Care, visit https://www.griswoldhomecare.com/lehigh-valley/contact-us/ or contact Amy Pachecho, [email protected], 610-821-0821.