Are Your Parents Feeling Confident Aging at Home?
Your mom and dad live alone, and you’re hours away. Are they confident aging at home, or is it time to talk to them about elder care services? Ask these questions to help them decide what they worry about and where they feel their strengths are.
Are They Finding It Harder to Get Around?
Elder Care Alexandria, VA: Aging at Home
Arthritis is one of the most common chronic health issues. It impacts mobility and balance. If your mom and dad have arthritis in the knee, ankle, or hip, it may lead to them feeling unsteady on their feet.
They don’t walk around as much, and that exacerbates issues with their health and mobility. If it continues, they may become isolated and never go outside or leave the home.
Is Loneliness a Problem?
How social are your parents? After retirement, they may find it hard to stay social. Their co-workers still work and don’t have much time for them. Their neighbors moved, and their long-time friends have left the state for a cheaper cost of living or to avoid bitter cold winters.
As your parents’ social circles shrink, they may start to feel lonely. They may not admit it to you. If you find they call each week to ask if you’re stopping by, it can be a sign of loneliness.
Do They Have a Hard Time With Housekeeping Chores?
Your mom and dad used to keep a spotless house. Your mom would vacuum each day. Your dad was constantly wiping down surfaces and making sure there were no dirty dishes in the sink.
Over time, you’ve noticed that clutter takes over rooms. They will let dishes stack up for days before getting to them. The floors are covered in pet hair.
Ask them if they’re having a harder time keeping up with housework. Your mom and dad may not want to admit it. But, it’s important to know if housekeeping is becoming overwhelming due to difficulties with arthritis pain, balance, or muscle strength.
When Was the Last Time They Forgot an Appointment or Daily Medication?
Have your parents made appointments with their dentist, doctor, or hairdresser and forgotten all about them? Have they taken their daily medications on time without forgetting and doubling a dose?
If they forget little things like this, they may need help with scheduling and organization. It’s better to address things now than wait for it to lead to a costly no-show fee or medical issue caused by overdosing or missing a pill.
Elder care meets your parents’ needs. They’re not stuck in having caregivers there all day, every day. Your family works with an expert in elder care to figure out what your parents need for care services and how often caregivers should stop by. Learn more by making a call.