Caring For Elderly Parents - INDICATORS

There is no special or specific age that signals when your elderly parent can no longer be on her or his own. We must be vigilant to ensure that our seniors are eating well, taking proper care of themselves, staying on top of their medications, and keeping all medical appointments. It is also important that their house environment is clean and safe and they have a social support system. They are ideals that we all need to strive for.

The time to do this is when you see changes, no matter how subtle. May be the mail going unopened for days? Are bills being ignored? Can be your parent declining to answer the telephone or stay in touch with friends and family?

You also need to step back and take a hard look at your parent's environment. Consider how you can make things safer, brighter, and cleaner, given your time and finances. This includes an array of questions it is advisable to ask, including:

? Will be 資格 and working?
? Is the electricity and every one of the lights and appliances in working order?
? Is the exterior of the house and grounds kept up?
? Are your parents concerned about getting adequate food and nourishment?
? Are they taking their medications and likely to medical appointments?
? Are they getting exercise?

When you have done everything inside your power, and it becomes obvious that it is not enough, it's time to reevaluate the situation and explore other housing options. It is very important when looking after elderly parents that you include them in your choice making process each step of just how when possible. Open communication is invaluable. Be aware of the options that are offered such as: relocating with you or another relative, moving to an inferior apartment/living space closer to you, retirement homes, assisted living facilities, and nursing facilities.