A Holiday Wellbeing Checklist for Seniors
The holiday season is upon us, and it's a good idea to be super diligent about checking on a senior loved one's wellbeing this holiday season. Whether you are visiting your loved one at their senior living community or home, here are some important changes to question and look out for as you communicate:
Emotional Changes
During the holidays, seniors are at a higher risk for elderly depression. Has your loved one withdrawn from any of their favorite holiday traditions, like church services or community events? Is your loved one drinking more, or sleeping excessively?
Physical Changes
Physical changes are often the easiest to spot. Has your mother’s appearance changed (e.g. weight loss, disheveled hair, stained clothing)? Does your father have trouble walking? Does your loved one show signs of forgetfulness or memory loss? If you are not seeing your loved one in person this year, be sure to check with people that may be in regular contact with them such as a friend or caregiver.
Home Safety Needs
Does your loved one’s home provide enough support for their changing needs? Are there grab bars in the bathroom and rails on every staircase to help prevent falls? Does your parent have a reliable way to call for help in case of a fall or other emergency? Is mom’s home clean and well maintained with properly functioning smoke detectors, fire extinguishers and carbon monoxide detectors? Be sure to inspect your loved one's home and make necessary safety updates.
Transportation Needs
Is your parent still driving, and able to do so safely? Look for recent dents in their car. Do they have other ways to get to the grocery store and pharmacy when roads are icy or the driveway is blocked with snow? Are there reliable transportation services available when your loved one can no longer drive? It may be time to outsource some of these errands.
If you notice any of these changes, or find your parent has changing needs, it’s important to talk with them and with other family members and caregivers. There are many options for additional support, ranging from in home care and senior transportation services to senior living. Don’t put off the discussion, because the earlier you have the conversation, the more options you will have.