Checking in with Mom & Dad to Start the New Year

It’s a good idea to check in with aging loved ones on a regular basis to make sure they’re staying happy and healthy. The start of the new year offers a great opportunity to call/video chat with those most important to you. Seeing members of your extended family is different in Framingham and the surrounding area due to the COVID-19 pandemic but virtual get togethers can still give you a chance to make sure an aging loved one is getting the care they need and staying healthy at home.

Here are a few questions to ask yourself to evaluate how loved ones are doing while you’re talking to them.

Are your loved ones acting differently?

When seeing your parents, ask yourself if their actions seem ordinary to you. Memory problems are a part of aging and older loved ones who repeat themselves often have problems remembering everything they need to do on a daily basis. Loved ones acting differently or distant during family gatherings can be a sign of anxiety or depression.

How is their health?

Making sure an older loved one is eating well and in good shape is another important part of checking on their overall health. Weight loss can be a sign of illness and malnourishment and should be addressed immediately by their physician if you have a concern. Asking if they’ve been to the doctor and dentist recently is also a good idea to make sure they haven’t been missing any appointments.

Are they taking care of themselves?

An aging loved one could need support if you notice they’re having a problem keeping clean or dressing appropriately. Getting older is stressful for many individuals and making sure they have the care they need to continue to live independently is one of the best ways to ensure they stay happy and taken care of. It’s important to make sure an older loved one acknowledges the need for help if you notice they’re having trouble taking care of themselves.

Are they in control of domestic life?

Any trouble around an older loved one’s home you notice can be a cause for concern. Unanswered messages, unpaid bills and general clutter can all be signs of problems with keeping things organized that can lead to more serious issues like forgetting to take medication on time or attend an important appointment.

Flexible Home Care

Taking time to appreciate your loved ones and listening to what they have to say is one of the best ways to determine if they need more support around the house. Griswold Home Care offers reliable home care services for seniors who need help to live independently in Needham and other towns in the area. We understand that every situation is different and develop a custom care plan for each one of our clients so we can ensure that their specific needs are met. Contact us today to learn more about how Griswold Home Care can help get you the support you need for an older loved one.