HOW to KNOW when YOUR PARENTS WILL NEED ASSISTANCE

The Baby Boomer generation is getting older, we are healthier than our parent were at our age. Many of us have dual lifestyles, we have our parents, spouses parents and our own families to care for. As our parents age we know that they have always liked their independence yet we care for them and do not wish for them to fall prey to unscrupulous people and ill will.
Many of us do not want to have to ship our parents off to a home or assisted living environment if we can help it. Any many of us want to assure that our loved ones are safe if they insist upon living independently. So how will we know when they need assistance.

There is a decline in mental and physical capabilities is inevitable as we age. Ask without being patronizing. You're likely to notice a general slow down, which is a cue to ask general questions. If you see specific things that worry you, talk them over.

Explain your concern. Listen to them, and then propose solutions if needed. Ask your loved one what he or she thinks the solution might be. It may not be appropriate to insist on your approach unless there is a threat to his or her safety or to the safety of others.

Look at them, look at their hygiene habits, check their clothes see if there is a decline, if their clothes are not as clean as they used to be, ask them if you can help, tell them you will be over on a certain day and the two of you can do the laundry together, pitch in and tell them that you will wash and your Mom or Dad can fold. Keep them as active as possible, make them feel independent, yet you are helping.

If you notice your parent's refrigerator is often empty, quietly inquire why, do they have enough money, did they get a chance to go to the store, are the grocery bags to heavy for them to carry, are they eating less or did they just forget to go. Make a day or time frame that you take them to lunch and while you are out, tell them that you have to stop at the grocery store and ask them to go in with you, that way you can see that they are purchasing something for themselves. Give them a feeling of independence.

As you focus on the issues, you can speak with other family members and friends about your concerns. They maybe a good source of insight, especially if they see your aging loved one regularly. Keep tabs on them even if it is just a phone call a day to assure them that someone still cares about them.