When caring for an aging parent or relative from afar, it can be hard to know when your help is needed. Sometimes, your parent will ask for help. Or, the sudden start of a severe illness will make it clear that assistance is needed. But, when you live far away, some detective work might be necessary to uncover possible signs that support or help is needed.
What to Do When an Aging Parent Needs Help
When you notice signs that your aging parent or relative needs help, it is important to know what steps to take next. Some signs may require a simple fix, like needing new glasses or a new prescription. But other times, you may need to provide more help. When you visit, look around the home for possible trouble areas. If you can't fix everything during your visit, see
if you can arrange with someone else to help finish.
Having to make important healthcare decisions for an aging parent can be hard on both family members and caregivers. Be sure to voice your concerns with your family member and explain to them why you are feeling this way. Your first consideration should be to try to fulfill the wishes of you parents wherever possible. If not, try to make similar decisions to ones they may have made in the past. This way, you can ensure you are trying to do what is in the best interest for your parent. It is also handy to have a list of local resources in their area to contact if you need to.
In some cases, you may be in the position of having to help your parent make difficult healthcare decisions. If a parent is sick, it is important that they assign a power of attorney for health care to allow someone to act on their behalf in medical situations.
What Are the Signs of Self-Neglect?
Hoarding
Failure to take essential medications or refusal to seek medical treatment for serious illness
Leaving a burning stove unattended
Poor hygiene
Not wearing suitable clothing for the weather
Confusion
Inability to attend to housekeeping
Dehydration
For more information on this article please visit the National Institute of Health website.
Please contact Haven Home Care of NC, LLC to assist with this transition and to establish a comprehensive home care plan. havenhomecareofnc.com/contact
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