'Tiz the season to worry about mom & dad...

The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  
Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958

 December is a time for family.  As the time when many travel to be with parents or grandparents, a family gathering can bring to light previously unknown physical or mental problems of aging relatives.  It's important to distinguish between traits of normal aging and something more serious.  Here are a few items you should take note of..

1. House - Neat and maintained or dusty and in disrepair?
2. Refrigerator - Adequate and fresh food?  Have eating habits changed?  Is there weight loss?
3. Conversation - Are extended conversations a challenge?  Do they repeat questions several times?
4. Forgetfulness - Are there stacks of unopened mail, unpaid bills, missed appointment reminders?
5. Hygiene - Do they look less tidy than the last time you saw them? IE: unshaven, clothes not clean/neat, hair not combed, body odor.
6. Driving - Can they drive themselves safely?  Do you say to yourself "oh no, they're driving to...".

  This is only a brief list.  Our aging families, parents, friends and loved ones rarely want to burden anyone, but we shouldn't ignore their needs.  If you notice these traits, talk about it in a caring manner with them, and also discuss how you can improve the issues.  Above all, be gentle when making changes.