Things to consider after a visit

There’s just no substitute for a face to face visit.  It’s not uncommon to get a wake-up call after visiting aging parents.  You typically will see something that’s just not noticeable in a phone call.  Things like weight loss or the appearance of neglect, or just looking more frail than you remember from your last visit.  What to do?

1. Everyone has probably heard this before, but it’s critical and should be repeated.  Are all legal documents in order? Durable power of attorney, healthcare documents, living wills, etc., need to be current and easily located. If possible, make copies for yourself, especially if you are named in the document.
2. Are there plans for managing at home with help if needed?  If grocery shopping, cooking, transportation,  or bathing is getting difficult, discuss how help will be arranged.  Consider different In Home Care options, and how this will be financed.
3. Being isolated at home without help and without social contacts is can lead to withdrawal and depression.  Check out alternative living situations or activity centers.  If In Home Care is retained, make sure this is on the list of things that need attention.
4. If bills are languishing, or keeping track of finances is an issue, offer to help with money management.  If possible, have your name added to bank accounts.
5. Know what to do if a health emergency arises.  Establish records of doctors information, medications, recent diagnoses, and day to day health issues.  It’s almost inevitable with aging parents that a health crisis is going to come up sooner or later.  This is a good time to discuss the topic of end of life wishes.

Holiday visits can be a busy time, and it’s easy to want to ignore obvious signs of problems.  Don’t wait for someone else to mention it.  Take a deep breath, and discuss issues up front.  If you need guidance, call us.  We help clients with these challenges daily. It helps everyone in the long run.

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!