‘Tis the season for families to come together to celebrate the holidays, including with our elderly loved ones. In many instances, this time of year is the first time you may see an aging parent, grandparent, or other relatives after months apart, or even perhaps from the last holiday season. Below are some common age-related changes in loved ones to be mindful of when visiting.
- Significant weight gain or loss
- Changes in mobility or balance
- Fluctuations in mood or behaviors
- Poor memory or increased confusion
It is important to address changes in loved ones such as those listed above early on in an attempt to lessen the risk of falls or other health crises. As you reflect on this year’s visit, note if you have noticed any changes in your loved one’s condition, as it could mean “something more” is going on than common age-related changes.
It is important to communicate changes to your loved one’s physician, as medications or health conditions may contribute to the change. Interventions like in-home care (physical, occupational, or speech therapies) may be beneficial to improve your loved one’s independence and safety in the home. Your loved one may benefit from increased companionship or home health care to support with tasks like personal hygiene, proper nutrition and meal preparation, medication oversight, cleaning, and other basic needs. In some cases, living independently may no longer be safe or appropriate; fortunately, there are safer residential options available to ensure your loved one’s care needs are best met.
At Rothkoff Law Group, our team of elder care coordinators often speak with our client and their families about these changes and provide resources to support our clients in their homes or an alternative environment. Our occupational therapist is available to assess our client’s homes, making necessary home-modification recommendations that may better ensure your loved one’s environment is appropriate for their needs.
If you note changes and recognize the potential need for care as members of your family grow older, Rothkoff Law Group is available to support you through these changes and ease any concerns surrounding the cost of care.