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When to Intervene With Aging Parents
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Scientifically, our bodies begin to "age" after 30 years. At some point during this aging process, one begins to have more difficulty performing everyday activities. So, when should we become concerned about an agining adult?
To zero in on a person's abilities, one should make careful observations. The following statements describe a few health and daily lifestyle patterns. If you observe a significant number of these patterns, you should consult with a specialist.
Physical
- recent health problems
- serious side effects from medications
- loss of vision or hearing
- repeated falls (bruises on arms and legs can be an indicator)
- neglected hygiene
- incontinence
Cognitive/Orientation
- memory lapses
- impaired thinking
- impaired communication (verbal or written)
- unaware of person, place, and time
- inability to account for time
Behavioral
- aggressiveness or abusiveness
- isolation
- loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
- neglected appearance
- lethargy or apathy
- any other drastic change in routine
Financial
- not paying bills on time
- unable to balance check book
- not able to account for spending
Daily Living
- trouble grocery shopping
- difficulty cooking, eating, or using appliances safely
- less frequent or poor house cleaning
- difficulty bathing
- poor mobility
- needs help dressing
- cannot drive car or use public transportation safely
Additionally, the following are several safety considerations. You can take actions on these items, if you want to be proactive.
Assess Home Safety
- handrails and guard rails
- emergency response system
- adequate lighting
- scatter rugs (as few as possible) and minimal clutter
- bathroom grab bars
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