If you are caring for an aging parent, you might not want to think about getting professional help just yet. You may want to believe that you can handle the issues on your own, or perhaps you feel you are neglecting your parent if you put the responsibilities in someone else’s hands.
However, if your parent needs care that goes beyond what you can offer, you should find the right help as soon as possible. Here are some warning signs you should look out for.
Memory problems
According to Consumer Affairs, memory problems affect about 71% of nursing home residents to some degree. Memory impairments are especially concerning because they can be an early sign of dementia or Alzheimer’s. If your parent is often asking questions you have already answered or forgetting instructions you gave, he or she might need professional help.
Physical problems
You should always pay attention to your loved one’s physical condition and check to see if it might be worsening. If your parent is struggling to perform normal daily activities such as bathing, dressing and toileting, it might be time to talk to him or her about assisted living. A professional team can help your loved one move around safely and address the issues at hand.
There is only so much you can do for an elderly parent. You should know when to get more qualified people to step in if things become overwhelming. This way, you can make your own life easier and improve your loved one’s care at the same time.
