The changing color on the trees, the cool crispness in the air and holidays with loved ones are all my favorite things. It is also one of the busiest times for families and senior advisors. As we gather together to celebrate and see our family during the holiday season, it is a good opportunity to take a moment to assess any changes in our loved ones that have gone overlooked. We live very busy lives and it is difficult to pay attention to subtle changes in a senior’s condition day to day or detect growing needs over the phone. I advise families to take a moment around the kitchen table and check in with your parents on any challenges that they be facing. It is important to be sensitive and show respect, and in a loving manner, express your desire to help with any problems while visiting.
Here are some areas of concerns:
- Changes in eating habits or weight loss?
- Neglected personal hygiene, dirty clothes, and unkempt hair?
- Home is not as clean as usual or spoiled food in the refrigerator?
- Exhibiting forgetfulness, unopened mail, medication not taken, or bills unpaid?
- More quiet than usual, easily overwhelmed or tired by company?
It is very tempting and easy to go online and search for help and advice, but be very careful about online registrations. Unlike, regulated healthcare providers, online placement agencies and senior care communities are not obligated or legally bound to protect your privacy. In fact, more and more clients are telling us that they are being inundated with sales calls and emails after mistakenly giving out their contact information. Avoid filling out any and all forms! Senior Provisions promises to never share contact information without your knowledge or permission!
The holidays are a great time to reconnect and enjoy being a family, but it is also a good time to slow down and see if you or the senior around you is having any struggles. Be observant and if you see any warning signs, please reach out to us for help and advice. Senior Provisions wishes everyone a joyful and safe holiday season!
For more information, call: 1-615-278-5080 or go to www.SeniorProvisions.com
Amy Hentschel, Owner/Senior Care Advisor – Senior Provisions – www.seniorprovisions.com
