Could Your Aging Parent Need Help?
Lately, you’ve noticed that your mom
hasn’t kept her pantry stocked. Or
maybe your dad has been calling you
at odd hours. These could be signs that
your aging parent needs assistance.
Here are some ways to tell whether you
should offer help—and how you can
do it.
An aging parent could need help if he or she:
- Neglects personal hygiene
- Seems sad or worried
- Loses weight for no reason
- Forgets to open mail or pay bills
- Has driving accidents
- Becomes lost, even in familiar places
Know What Your Parent Wants
If possible, try to learn your parent’s preferences for care before a crisis. For example, some people might prefer to have a relative help them with dressing or bathing.If you’re unsure how to start the conversation, try using the story of someone you both know. For example, “Do you remember the changes cousin Joe’s family made when he got sick? I don’t want our family to be unprepared, so I’d like to talk with you about how you’d like to handle it if you ever need help.”
Offer Practical Suggestions
When discussing the situation with your parent, be specific. Be sure to discuss what you will do—dropping by twice a week or arranging for transportation, for example.If your parent resists at first, don’t give up. Try not to be critical, but say you are worried and suggest what needs to be done.
