elderadvocare

While most of these early warning signs mean little when viewed individually and could in fact happen to many of us on an occasional basis, when you start to see them grouped or appearing in lengthy duration it could be a sign that you may need to step in and assess the situation a little more deeply.

• Difficulty walking
• Unsteady when standing
• Recent fall(s)
• Poor grooming or poor personal hygiene
• Loss of appetite or changes in eating and cooking habits
• Diminished driving skills, inability to pace speed, recent accidents or near misses
• Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed and a reluctance to (Read on …)

As a parent or loved one ages you may be the only one available to help them through their transition, and often that can come about unexpectedly if a situation (such as a fall) comes on suddenly. You’re going to be faced with a lot of questions about things you might have never had to consider before things like how to best manage medication, how to make their living environment safer and more accessible for them, and how to assist in budget management to name a few. These are thoughts to be considered should a situation come on suddenly; but likewise, should you may see some subtle warning signs that signal you to start thinking along the lines of your next best steps.The AARP suggests the following “rules” when it comes time to determining whether help is needed and to what extent, and while these steps focus on parents, the same holds true for anyone you may be charged to care for:

1. Start with a candid conversation
2. Set your priorities
3. Build a support network
4. Offer alternatives
5. Don’t be afraid to (Read on …)