The end of the year often includes celebrations that bring families together after weeks or even months apart. In addition to new memories made at these holiday gatherings, they may also reveal signs that someone living alone may no longer be able to care for themselves, triggering a discussion of options available to keep them living independently.
Before decisions can be made, families need to properly assess and evaluate a loved one’s needs. It is far less stressful to address these changes before a crisis occurs, exploring potential options when your loved one can participate in creating the plan and understand the reason for the suggestions. Bringing them into the conversation and discussing the alternatives can open their minds to the understanding that such assistance is needed to keep them safe and will also allow the family to be at relative ease.
When considering a plan, be sure to outline all appropriate options for your loved one. Depending on their needs, these options can include skilled nursing care, assisted living, adult day care or home care. Once it is determined which setting is most appropriate, it is easier to establish a plan that everyone can agree on, including the aging family member.
Recognize the Signs
• Medication errors: Does your loved one forget to take medications, or are they taking them correctly? Have you found medications on the floor?
• Balance problems: Have you noticed any difficulties ambulating? Have there been moments of instability when standing? Has there been a fall?
• Food issues: Does your loved one have difficulty preparing meals independently or become short of breath during the activity? Are foods burned or burners/oven left on? Have you found spoiled food in the refrigerator? Has your loved one lost weight or is he/she forgetting to eat meals?
• Poor personal care: When it comes to personal hygiene, are showers taken at least once or twice a week to prevent skin infections and breakdown? Are clothes clean, and are they changed on a daily basis?
• Mood changes: Has your loved one become withdrawn or seem depressed? Is he or she hesitant to go out or participate in family activities? Has your loved one become easily agitated or anxious?
• Coordinating Care: Does your loved one need increased assistance making doctor appointments and getting prescriptions refilled? Does he or she need assistance with transportation or food shopping?
If you answer yes to any of these questions, it may be time to discuss help so that your loved one can continue to live safely at home, or move to a higher level of care. If you’re looking for help to determine the best level of care for a loved one, turn to Gurwin Healthcare System. Contact a member of our caring team at 631-715-2000 for information.
By Dorian Froelich, LMSW
Chief Guest Relations Officer, Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center
