There comes a time when the relationship between parent and child switches places. While once your parent offered unconditional emotional and financial support and guidance, over time the roles switch and suddenly the child becomes the caregiver and protector. Though parents and children alike may resist this transition, there are many signs that indicate the parent may need help at home. Here are ten signs to keep an eye out for:
1. Missing important appointments
If the parent forgets important appointments such as doctors’ visits or missing family gatherings because they have forgotten the details, then this may a sign that they need help.
2. Difficulty with walking, balance and mobility
With old age often come difficulties with walking, balance, and mobility. This is to be expected, but only to a certain degree. If the parent is significantly struggling with their mobility, then it is definitely time to step in and take control.
3. Uncertainty or confusion over simple tasks
Confusion and hesitation over simple tasks that were once easy to your parents could be sign of something far more serious such as Alzheimer’s disease. It is important that the child is vigilant and continuously on the lookout for signs of this condition.
4. Decline in overall cleanliness
Has the parent’s home suddenly become dusty and messy? Is there is a constant unpleasant odour and is personal hygiene being neglected? If this is the case, then the parent definitely needs some assistance.
5. Loss of interest in hobbies
A loss of interest and hobbies can be a sign of serious health problems and also a sign of depression. Many older people find themselves at a loss following retirement. Therefore it’s important that the child attempts to give them something to get out of bed for.
6. Weight loss and poor diet
Weight loss can indicate that the parent is not eating as good a diet as they once did. It is possible that cooking meals has become too much for them and so they are neglecting their bodies and their minds by eating a poor diet or barely eating at all.
7. Extreme mood swings
Extreme mood swings can be a sign of depression and other health disorders. If the child notices severe changes in mood in the parent, then this should definitely be considered a warning sign.
8. Neglecting to take medication
Neglecting to take medication can indicate that the parent is forgetting they need the information in the first place. This may be another sign of a serious condition such as Alzheimer’s Disease and may lead to significant consequences because the parent is not taking needed medication.
9. Rotten Food
Rotten food in the house shows that the parent has lost interest in looking after themselves and their home, or is forgetful about basic life necessities like grocery shopping and household chores.
10. Unexplained Bruising
Unexplained bruising could indicate that the parent is accidentally hurting themselves regularly trying to complete simple tasks.
If you notice any of these signs, don’t fret. A home family care service in Ottawa can help ease the transition and help the parent live an independent and fulfilling life at home. Caregivers from home family care services provide companionship, homemaking, and light housekeeping services, 24-hour nurse-managed care, support with daily living activities, and live-in care if needed.
Contact Choice Homecare at 613-907-3191 to learn more.