Aging Parents: 8 Clues They Aren't OK
Assisted Living Cuero Texas
The holidays often bring famlies together after long periods of time apart. Adult children who do not live near their parents are often very concerned about their aging parents and look forward to the opportunity to see for themselves just how their parents are managing.
Elder parents often don't want to worry or burden their children so they may downplay any issues they may be facing. Adult children who live near their parents often tell me that they struggle with their out-of-town siblings who are convinced that their parents are doing well, when in fact, they are not. Some face to face time can really help everyone come to a clear understanding of any issues that may be arising for aging parents.
Paula Spencer Scott provides excellent guidance to assist adult children in assessing their parent's situation, suggesting that looking for clues and investigating the situation isn't being "nosy" it's being smart. Here's the first of her eight ways to investigate.
1. Give a big hug.
Look for:
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Obvious weight loss. Anything from depression to cancer to difficulty shopping and cooking can be behind a noticeable loss of weight.
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Increased frailty. If you can notice something "different" about a person's strength and stature just in a hug, it's noteworthy. Pay close attention to how your loved one walks (shuffles more?) and moves (rises easily from a chair? has trouble with balance?), comparing these benchmarks to the last time you were together.
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Obvious weight gain. Injury, diabetes, and dementia (because the person doesn't remember eating and has meals over and over) might be the cause. So can money troubles that lead to fewer fresh foods, more dried pasta and bread.
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Strange body odor. Sad to say, changes in personal grooming habits because of memory trouble or physical ailments might be noticeable on very close inspection. Look, too, for changes in makeup, hair, or the ability to wear clean clothes.
