LOOKING AFTER Elderly Parents

There is not any special or specific age that signals whenever your elderly parent can no longer be on his / her own. We must be vigilant to make certain that our seniors are eating well, taking care of themselves, staying along with their medications, and keeping all medical appointments. Additionally it is 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 take action is once you see changes, no matter how subtle. Is the mail going unopened for days? Are bills being ignored? Is your parent declining to answer the phone or stay in touch with family and friends?

You also need to step back and have a hard look at your parent's environment. Consider how you can make things safer, brighter, and cleaner, given your time and finances. This consists of a wide range of questions you need to ask, including:

? Will be the locks adequate and working?
? May be the electricity and every one of the lighting fixtures and appliances in working order?
? Is the exterior of the house and grounds kept up?
? Are your parents worried about getting adequate food and nourishment?
? Are they taking their medications and going to medical appointments?
? Are they getting exercise?

Once 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 crucial when caring for elderly parents that you include them in the decision making process each step of just how when possible. 看護師 is invaluable. Be familiar with the options that are offered such as: relocating with you or another family member, moving to an inferior apartment/living space nearer to you, retirement homes, assisted living facilities, and nursing facilities.