Press
Ask the Care Manager . . .
By: Darla Heivly, Senior Solutions
As families prepare to gather for the holidays, there is often great anticipation as we look forward to being with family and friends we may not see often. Absence may indeed make the heart grow fonder. It also makes gradual changes in an aging loved one more apparent. Adult children of aging parents are often surprised and concerned at the changes they see in a parent or the household when they visit for the holidays.
The following may indicate a change in physical abilities or memory in a parent or loved one:
- Piles of unpaid bills.
- A stove that looks unused or has items piled on top.
- Food in the refrigerator that has spoiled or lack of food in the refrigerator.
- The same items in the cupboards or pantry since your last visit.
- Obvious weight loss.
- Your parent wears the same clothing throughout your visit.
- Nothing in the hamper or laundry basket
- Slight odor of urine or dirty hair
- Pet appears underfed or not cared for (litter box not changed, etc.)
- Too much or too little medicine remaining in bottles or medication set
- Trouble finding keys, common items
- Unexplained dents and scratches on the car
- General untidiness in a previous neat home
If you note any of these changes, make an appointment as soon as possible with the family physician or geriatrician to assess the situation. Be certain that a relative, trusted friend or advocate attends all medical appointments to ensure that any advice or changes in medication are implemented.
You may wish to consult with a geriatric care manager to assess the home. If you live far away or are unable to visit as frequently as you like, a geriatric care manager may be helpful to assist you in monitoring your loved ones as well.
Darla Heivly, MS, CMC, is a geriatric care manager and president of Senior Solutions, Inc. You can call her with questions at 610-435-6677 or e-mail her at ssrsolutions@aol.com.
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