You probably recognize it, your energetic mother who normally cleans the house every day, suddenly only cleans the house 2 or even once a week. Or your father who suddenly varies little in his meals. Recognizing and realizing that parents need extra care is often one of the most difficult challenges adult children face. As a child, how can you recognize the signs yourself and how can you take action on them? In this blog we discuss 5 of the most common signs that indicate that your parents may need extra care in their daily lives.
1. Direct debit calls and late payment notifications
Are your parents paying their bills, or not at all?
Do you notice that your parents are getting calls from debt collection companies and that letters are starting to pile up? This can be a signal of forgetfulness and can put the parent in financial trouble. Giving up a bit of independence, even when it comes to finances, is never nice for a parent.
It is difficult for them to admit that they actually need informal care and help with these practical matters. That is why it is good to discuss this with them as a family member, friend or acquaintance. In this way, the parent may see it better that it is no longer possible on its own.
2. Mood swings or extreme mood swings
Do you notice that your parents behave differently than usual towards friends, family or acquaintances? For example, your mother used to have long conversations with the neighbor and your father used to meet up with his friends regularly, but has this become considerably less now? These are unconsciously the consequences of changes in the behavior of the elderly. One minute they may feel grumpy, angry, or listless, while the next they may feel cheerful and happy again. This is also called a mood swing and can be a signal of age-related diseases.
3. A cluttered, dirty, or disorganized home
Is the house starting to look and feel different or unrecognizable? Is the house constantly cluttered and clothes are no longer washed? When you enter, there are suddenly magazines and piles of books or even rubbish on the table, which were never there before.
These could be signs that your parent is ready for care at home.
4. Forgetfulness
Do they lose keys, wallets or other important items or are these things in the strangest places, like in the fridge?
Do you notice that it happens regularly or more often? Then it is an idea to call in professional help.
5. Difficulty getting up from a sitting position
Does the elderly person have difficulty sitting or standing? Sometimes it is very obvious and quite easy to recognize that a parent needs care.
When simple and everyday things such as standing up or sitting no longer work, this can immediately be a reason to switch to home care.
As soon as you recognize any of these signs, don't wait too long to report them. It is important to write down your concerns and discuss them with your siblings and other family members. Buurtzorg is happy to help you find solutions for parents who need help. Feel free to contact us via our telephone number +5999 69 62 732 or send us an email at info@buurtzorgcaribbean.com.
Comments