When to Ask for Help

Caring for Aging Parents

It’s not news that as people age, their needs and abilities change. They may have difficulty driving or even moving about the house. They may not remember things well. They may have trouble taking care of things that used to be second nature. Adult children of aging parents may notice that Mom or Dad is having difficulty with daily living activities, and have concerns about their safety and well-being. Yet, they want to support their elder parents’ wish to live independently.

How do you know when it’s time to ask for help? Deter­mining whether the time has come starts with a multi-faceted assessment of the elder person’s abilities, condition and situation:

Physical Health: Have they been diagnosed with chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis or emphysema, or with other diseases such as heart disease, stroke or cancer? Do they have vision or hearing problems? Difficulty walking? (Make a list of healthcare professionals they currently see, and any recent hospitalizations.)

Mental Health: Are they showing signs of confusion, disorientation, isolation or depression? Have they been diagnosed with disorders such as depression, anxiety, Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia?

Medication: What medication are they currently taking? Make a list of the medications and supplements they take. Are they taking them medication as prescribed/directed?

Daily Living Skills: Are they able to dress, bathe, get up from a chair, use the toilet, climb stairs, use the phone? Do they know how to get help in an emergency? Can they shop, make meals for themselves, do any housework? If they drive, do they drive safely?

Interest/Lifestyle: Do they still do the things they always found enjoyable, such as engage in hobbies, read, exercise, go to church, keep up with friends?

If it’s time to find help for your elderly family member, don’t wait. As for the expense, quality care doesn’t have to be a financial or emotional nightmare. (In fact, some insurance programs pay for these services.) The sooner you find qualified, caring help, the better for your aging parent, and for your own peace of mind.

Granny Nannies
1912 Boothe Circle, Ste. 300, Longwood; 800.31.NANNY (800.316.2669); grannynannies.com.

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