After visiting their elderly parents, many adult children wonder whether their mom or dad might benefit from some help at home. If you’re in this boat, asking yourself a few questions the next time you visit will help you begin to figure out what they need.
- Have there been any major changes in your parent’s weight recently?
- Is your parent exercising or otherwise staying active? (Walking counts!)
- Is your parent getting out of the house?
- Does your parent socialize with friends or neighbors?
- Can your parent manage the finances independently? Does he or she pay bills on time?
- If an appliance breaks, can your parent find a repairman and make an appointment?
- Does your parent have trouble climbing steps?
- Does your parent have a plan in the event of a medical emergency or natural disaster?
- Does your parent seem happy or content? Are there any signs of depression?
- Is your parent able to main the household independently (e.g., cooking, cleaning and grocery shopping)?
Perhaps what seemed like a case of the blues over the phone is more serious than you realized initially. Or maybe your mom is more isolated now that she no longer plays bridge. These dilemmas can be remedied with the proper help and support. Every family’s situation is different. A good rule of thumb is to ask questions whenever there is a departure from your parent’s usual behavior.
Valery Amador, Daily Venus Diva -- Daily Venus Diva.
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