Do you have a senior parent living alone? Have you started worrying more about their safety and well-being? Are you unsure if it’s time to move to assisted living? It isn’t always easy to tell when a parent can’t live alone. This post will explore what to look for if you worry about your parent living alone.
6 Signs That Your Senior Parent Living Alone Needs More Help
1. Personal Hygiene and Appearance
You might notice that your parent may not be as attentive to their hygiene and appearance as they used to be. Things like body odor, bad breath, or wearing soiled clothes can be signs they’re having trouble with personal care. It could be due to physical challenges, changes in their cognitive abilities, or even mental health concerns.
2. Forgetfulness
It’s completely normal to experience memory lapses and moments of forgetfulness. However, suppose you or someone you know notices these issues more often. In that case, it might be worth checking overall cognitive health. Conditions like Alzheimer’s disease can make independent living a challenge. For instance, they might forget important household chores or personal care.
3. Mobility and Falls
Decreased mobility can be an issue for seniors living alone. Along with making daily life more difficult, it can increase their risk of falls. Older people are more likely to suffer serious injuries in a fall. In some cases, falls can lead to permanent injury or start the decline that leads to death.
4. Home Maintenance
When you visit your parent, have you noticed that their home isn’t quite as tidy as it used to be? Maybe the lawn is overgrown, or you will see piles of unopened mail. Remember, keeping the space neat is essential—not just for how it looks, but for safety, too! A tidy home can help prevent trips and falls. If things are starting to feel a bit neglected, it might be a sign that your parent needs help.
5. Weight Loss and Social Isolation
Is your parent experiencing weight loss? That might indicate they’re not eating as healthily as they should. It could be due to feeling tired, facing physical challenges, or having a tough time with cooking. Sometimes, seniors may pull back from social gatherings. It can happen for various reasons, like feeling down, anxious, or having difficulty with memory. Social isolation can affect both mental and physical well-being.
6. Home Safety and Health Assessment
Walk around the house to spot any potential hazards. Check the outside, entry points, and all the rooms to ensure everything is safe. Also, ensuring our seniors feel confident managing their medications is important. Look at how well they can read labels, keep track of dosages, and steer clear of mistakes. Check for any ongoing health issues like arthritis, hypertension, or diabetes.
Are you interested in assisted living for your parent? At Enrich Senior Living, we strive to offer the best care to every resident. Plan a tour to see what sets our community apart from others. You can also contact our team for more information.
