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Keeping Your Elderly Loved Ones Safe at Home
The home that your elderly parent has occupied for decades is now quieter, calmer and emptier than ever before. While that isn’t necessarily a bad thing, some elderly adults struggle to live alone and maintain independence as health (physical, mental and emotional) changes occur. What should you look for when determining whether or not your loved one is safe?
Forgetting Medication Instructions
If your parent stops taking medications correctly, it is a significant cause for concern. As the list of medications your loved one takes grows, it can be difficult for them to manage the instructions and remember when to take what. To keep things safe, work with a pharmacy, senior home or home health care provider to keep medications organized.
Frequent Falls
One of the most serious signs that your loved one should not live alone any longer is frequent falls. A single fall can hurt the knees, spine, hip, pelvis, elbow or wrist. In many cases, broken bones after a fall lead to other complications like colds, bronchitis, pneumonia or strokes. If your loved one has unexplained bruising when you visit, keep in mind that he or she might be embarrassed to tell you about falls around the house. Pay attention and don’t wait to act.
Strange Purchases
Are your loved one’s credit card bills or other bills climbing? Are strange purchases appearing on billing statements? As adults age, it can be difficult to manage money properly. If your parent struggles to pay mandatory bills like the mortgage but seems to be purchasing odd products from television advertisements, extra help might be necessary. You, your siblings or a professional should monitor purchases and bills.
Staying Inside
A moderate amount of reclusiveness is normal, as many seniors enjoy spending time at home engaging in their hobbies of choice. However, if your parent is isolated from family, friends, social activities and the outside world, there might be a bigger issue. Healthy relationships with neighbors, friends and family have positive impacts on physical and mental health. An assisted living home could be the perfect place for your parent to meet new people and engage in more activities in a safe environment.
Partner with Senior Care Lifestyles
At Senior Care Lifestyles, we specialize in facilitating the connection between seniors and the right in-home care, assisted living and senior living communities. We have assisted hundreds of families with finding effective and affordable solutions for loved ones. Get in touch today by calling 410-220-2300!
