With the holidays approaching, many have made plans to visit parents and loved ones. Some family members haven’t been together for quite a while, and this is an exciting time to celebrate being with one another. While it’s a time to share happiness and express your appreciation for loved ones, it is also important to recognize things may have changed since the last visit. In this regard, take the opportunity to observe your parents and their surroundings to determine if they need additional help living independently
Changes at Home
Appearance of home – Does it seem like the home needs more maintenance than usual? Offering to help with whatever needs to be done around the house will give you a pretty good idea of things that are not getting done.
Appearance of parents – Does it seem like they’ve lost weight or are more frail?
Hearing – If they’re giving you answers to questions which don’t make sense, they may need to be checked by a professional for their hearing.
Medications – Are they taking their medications consistently? Check to see if medications are organized properly and try to determine if they are taking them in a timely manner.
Driving – How is their driving? Have them drive, if you go for a ride, and take notice how they are on the road.
Bills – Are they paying their bills? Has the mail even been opened?
Prevention of Falls
Balance – How is their balance? If there appears to be a balance problem, medications or incorrect prescription eyeglasses could be playing a role, so visit the appropriate doctor.
Handrails – Are there handrails on the stairway? Is the stairway well lit? Having handrails professionally installed on both sides helps avoid falls. Handrails should also be installed in showers, toilet areas or anywhere where balance has to be shifted.
Rugs – Could rugs be a tripping hazard? A small increase in floor height of a rug could cause problems. Nonskid rugs should be used on bathroom floors.
Bathroom – Is there a step-in bathtub or walk in shower? What about a shower chair? A toilet safety frame? Bathrooms are a common place where seniors fall, and it can be very dangerous due to hard surfaces and sharp corners.
Clutter – Are there newspapers, magazines, shoes and other materials lying around or on the stairs? Keep these things away from common walk areas.
Storage – Is everything within easy reach? Eliminate the use of ladders and make sure storage items are in convenient locations.
Have a wonderful time being together with your family during the holidays. Keep in mind it’s important to be aware of the surroundings to create a less-risky setting at home and to get the assistance necessary to keep your loved ones safe. Many times the relative who visits the most infrequently is the one who notices the changes.
Frank M. Samson is Founder of Senior Care Authority based in Sonoma, which provides free assistance to families looking to find In-Home Care, Independent and Assisted Living for their loved ones. He can be reached at 707.939.8744 or e-mailed at frank@seniorcareauthority.com. The company Web site is seniorcareauthority.com.
