Signs That An Aging Parent Needs Help

Author

ELDER MAZE SOLUTIONS

For more information about the author, click to view their website: Elder Maze Solutions

Posted on

Nov 11, 2024

Book/Edition

Pennsylvania - Greater Pittsburgh Area

As our parents age, it becomes increasingly important to be aware of signs that they may need additional support. While many older adults fiercely value their independence, there are often subtle indicators that assistance is necessary to ensure their safety, health, and overall well-being.

Key Signs Your Aging Parent Needs Help:


Changes in Physical Appearance and HygieneA noticeable decline in personal grooming habits or hygiene can be a red flag. This may include wearing soiled clothing, infrequent bathing, or neglecting oral care. Significant weight changes, either gain or loss, can also indicate difficulties with meal preparation or underlying health issues.

Household Management IssuesKeep an eye out for:
  • Expired food in the refrigerator or a strong odor in the kitchen
  • Piling up of mail, especially unpaid bills
  • Cluttered or disorganized living spaces
  • Neglected home maintenance, both interior and exterior
Medication MismanagementDifficulties with medication can have serious consequences.

Watch for:
  • Confusion about dosages or schedules
  • Unopened pill bottles or untouched medication boxes
  • Medications spilled on the floor
Cognitive and Emotional ChangesBe alert to:
  • Increased forgetfulness or confusion
  • Changes in mood or loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
  • Signs of loneliness or social isolation 
Mobility and Safety ConcernsLook out for:
  • Unexplained bruising or injuries
  • Difficulty with walking, balance, or getting up from seated positions
  • New scratches or dents on the car, indicating potential driving issues

Taking Action

If you notice one or more of these signs, it's time to have a conversation with your parent. Approach the topic with sensitivity and respect for their desire for independence. Involving other family members can help facilitate discussions and decision-making.


Remember that early intervention can prevent crises and ensure your parent receives the appropriate level of care. This might involve exploring options such as in-home assistance, meal delivery services, or senior living communities that can provide the necessary support while maintaining as much independence as possible.By staying vigilant and proactive, you can help your aging parent navigate this new phase of life with dignity and ensure their needs are met in a way that respects their wishes and preserves their quality of life.


If you notice just one of these happening with your parent, it is time to have a conversation. If you need help starting that conversation or implementing a plan of care, consider working with an Aging Life Care Professional. Aging Life Care Professionals™ understand the frustration felt by adult children and the desperation felt by older adults who want to hold on to their independence. With an objective perspective on the situation, we can help facilitate difficult family discussions and decision-making to address these and other concerns.

Other Articles You May Like

National PACE Month 2023 Where You Belong

National PACE (Programs of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly) Month is an annual celebration in the United States that takes place in the month of September. This month-long event aims to raise awareness about the PACE program and the important role it plays in enhancing the lives of elderly individuals. Senior LIFE is a provider of the PACE program, called LIFE in Pennsylvania. The innovative model of care allows seniors with long-term care needs to remain living in their community for as long as possible, as independently as possible. More than 95 percent of PACE participants live outside of a nursing home.The COVID-19 public health emergency taught everyone the value of community and the feeling of belonging. Loneliness and isolation have long been been issues for our seniors. This year, during National PACE Month, we celebrate the connections and communities that LIFE/PACE organizations can foster. This years theme is PACE: Where you Belong.Understanding the PACE ProgramThe LIFE/PACE program is a comprehensive, community-based healthcare model for elderly adults who need long-term care services. It provides a range of medical and social services to seniors, helping them live independently in their own homes and communities. LIFE is designed to provide personalized and coordinated care that takes into account the unique needs of each individual.The Goals of National PACE MonthNational PACE Month serves several important goals: Raising Awareness: The month-long celebration aims to increase public awareness about the existence and benefits of the PACE program. Many seniors and their families may not be familiar with this valuable resource, and National PACE Month seeks to change that. Highlighting Success Stories: It provides an opportunity to showcase the success stories of PACE participants and the positive impact the program has on their lives. Sharing these stories helps inspire others to explore the possibilities offered by the PACE program. Advocacy and Education: National PACE Month also serves as a platform for advocacy, education, and information sharing. It encourages discussions and exchanges about best practices, innovations, and policies related to senior care and the PACE program. Getting InvolvedAnyone can get involved in National PACE Month and help promote its goals. Here are a few ways to participate: Spread the Word: Share information about the PACE program with friends, family, and your community. Use social media platforms to raise awareness and share success stories. Attend Events: Participate in local events, workshops, and webinars organized by PACE programs or community organizations. Learn more about the program and the services it offers. Volunteer: Consider volunteering at a PACE program or a local senior center. Your skills, time, and companionship can make a significant difference in the lives of seniors. Advocate: Contact your local representatives and policymakers to advocate for the expansion and enhancement of the PACE program. Support legislation that promotes access to comprehensive care for elderly individuals. Senior LIFE and National PACE MonthSenior LIFE will recognize PACE Month with a special week long celebration held at each of the LIFE Health and Wellness Center. The special week recognizes the efforts, volunteerism, and extraordinary talents of the Senior LIFE staff and members.This years event will be held September 5th September 8th at each of the LIFE Health and Wellness Centers.The annual week-long event will be filled with activities and events that will engage Senior LIFE with the local community. Past years have featured events such as scavenger hunts, wheel chair races, and carnival days.All activities will take part at the LIFE Health and Wellness Centers. At the center, members of the LIFE Program can see their Primary Care Physicians and participate in rehabilitation programs.LIFE is a team-based model of care based on the idea of effectively and efficiently treating patients with multiple chronic conditions outside of the hospital setting.  The LIFE Program takes a comprehensive approach to care management: providers, homecare coordinators, transportation drivers, nurses, social workers, physical and occupational therapists, dietitians, recreational therapists, and others, who evaluate LIFE members and develop an individualized plan of care. Medical and supportive service services are provided with the intention of putting preventive support in place that sets seniors up to remain living in their homes long term, all at no cost to seniors on Medicaid who live in the community.National PACE Month is an important opportunity to raise awareness about the PACE program and its impact on the lives of seniors. By coming together as a community, we can celebrate the successes, advocate for improvements, and ensure that the PACE program continues to provide exceptional care and support to our elderly population. Lets make National PACE Month 2023 a time of gratitude, recognition, and a catalyst for positive change in senior care. To find out more about the LIFE Program, or to see if you qualify for the program, please contact us today!

Boost Your Health with 500 Steps

As we age, staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle becomes increasingly important. One way to do this is by walking more. In fact, research suggests that taking just 500 extra steps per day can have a significant impact on senior health.Health Benefits of WalkingWalking is a low-impact form of exercise that can have numerous health benefits, especially for older adults. It can help improve cardiovascular health, strengthen bones and muscles, and reduce the risk of chronic conditions like osteoporosis, diabetes, and heart disease. In addition, walking can improve balance and reduce the risk of falls.The Benefits of 500 Extra StepsTaking just 500 extra steps per day may not seem like much, but it can have a significant impact on senior health. Research suggests that taking an extra 500 steps per day can lead to a decrease in the risk of developing chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes. In addition, it can lead to improved mental health, better sleep, and increased energy levels.A study conducted by the American Heart Association found that for people ages 70 and older who walked an additional 500 steps per day, or an additional quarter mile of walking, experienced a 14% lower risk of heart disease, stroke or heart failure. Also, compared to adults who took less than 2,000 steps per day, adults who took about 4,500 steps per day had a 77% lower observed risk of experiencing a cardiovascular event.Strategies for Walking MoreTaking an extra 500 steps per day may sound like a daunting task, but there are many strategies that can help seniors achieve this goal. Here are a few tips: Take multiple short walks throughout the day: This can help add up to 500 extra steps without requiring a lot of time commitment. Use a pedometer or fitness tracker: Tracking steps can help seniors stay motivated and monitor their progress. Find a walking partner: Walking with a friend or family member can make it more enjoyable and provide social interaction. Set achievable goals: Start small and gradually increase the number of steps taken each day. Choose scenic routes: Walking in a park or nature trail can make it more enjoyable and provide additional health benefits. In conclusion, taking 500 extra steps per day can have a significant impact on senior health, and its an achievable goal for most people. Walking can help improve cardiovascular health, reduce the risk of chronic conditions, and improve mental health and overall well-being. By incorporating walking into their daily routine, seniors can help maintain their independence and enjoy a higher quality of life.Senior LIFE can help you with your goalsAt Senior LIFE, our goals align with the goals of many seniors to stay in the comfort of their homes, and out of a nursing home. We work with seniors and their caregivers to help seniors maintain independence by providing medical and supportive services including physician and nursing services, medication management, in-home care, and so more more! For a full list of services, please visit us online at: Senior LIFE ServicesSenior LIFE (Living Independence for the Elderly) is state and federally funded Medicare and Medicaid Program that provides long-term care for seniors, 55 years of age or older, so that they can remain living at home and out of a nursing facility.Senior LIFE Services are provided at NO COST to those on Medicaid who live in the community.To speak with a Senior LIFE representative about the program, and to learn if you or a family member may be eligible, please contact us via our website or email us at info@SeniorLIFEPA.com  

Caregiver Legal and Financial Considerations: Power of Attorney

Protecting Your Loved Ones Independence and Well-Being at HomeHelping a family member remain independent and living at home is a labor of love, but at times it can be overwhelming. There is so much to consider beyond just their overall health and well-being. Depending on the situation, a loved one may need immediate or future help coordinating medical care or managing finances. Having the proper Power of Attorney credentials established can help caregivers navigate the complexities of the system and avoid costly or time-consuming pitfalls during their loved ones aging journey.Here is a basic overview of two of the most common Power of Attorney documents:Financial Power of Attorney (Durable)With a Financial Power of Attorney (POA), a person known as the principal appoints an agent to carry out financial and other activities, as instructed by the principal. Often the person designated is a family member but note that it may be advisable to name a primary agent and an alternate agent. Principals may choose whether the POA becomes effective immediately or only in the event of illness/disability. Ideally, the POA document should have language indicating that it is durable (remains in effect even after the person is legally incapacitated). In Pennsylvania, the Financial POA must be notarized and witnessed. The law also stipulates that a POA must exercise the powers for the benefit of the principal, keep the assets of the principal separate from their own, and exercise reasonable caution and prudence. Financial Power of Attorney ceases after the principal passes away.Medical Power of AttorneyPennsylvania recognizes two types of advanced directives for healthcare decisions: Medical Power of Attorney and Living Wills. The Medical Power of Attorney, also known as a Healthcare POA or healthcare proxy, is broader in scope than a Living Will in that it empowers the caregiver to make all medical decisions if their loved one is unconscious, incapacitated, or mentally incompetent. The appointed person will be able to access medical records, speak to healthcare professionals, and make healthcare judgments and medical decisions based on their loved ones treatment (or non-treatment) preferences. A Medical POA is a crucial component of advance care planning, allowing your loved one to ensure that their healthcare preferences are honored. The document must have two witnesses and be notarized.Information and downloadable Power of Attorney pdf documents are available online. During the application process to Senior LIFE, a Senior LIFE outreach coordinator can also help you get started with the POA process. Contact us today.   

Local Services By This Author

Elder Maze Solutions

Geriatric Care Management 213 Smithfield St, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15222

Elder Maze Solutions offers a helping hand to families navigating the complexities of caring for aging loved ones. Our team of experienced professionals provides a comprehensive approach to elder care, ensuring your senior family members receive the care they need while maintaining their independence and dignity. Understanding the Challenges of Elder Care Caring for aging parents or grandparents can be a daunting task. As seniors face health issues, cognitive decline, or require assistance with daily living activities (ADLs), families are often left struggling to find the best course of action. Elder Maze Solutions recognizes these challenges and strives to alleviate the burden on families by providing expert guidance and support. Elder Maze Solutions: Services to Help You Navigate Elder Care Elder Maze Solutions offers a wide range of services designed to meet the specific needs of your loved one. Here's a closer look at some of their core offerings: Geriatric Care Assessments: A comprehensive evaluation by a qualified geriatric care manager (GCM) to assess your loved one's physical, cognitive, and functional abilities. This assessment helps identify areas where your senior might need assistance and forms the foundation for creating a personalized care plan. Care Coordination and Management: Elder Maze Solutions serves as a central point of contact for all your loved one's care needs. They work with doctors, specialists, therapists, and other healthcare providers to ensure a coordinated and seamless care experience. This reduces stress for families and ensures that your senior receives the right care at the right time. Dementia Care Management: Elder Maze Solutions specializes in providing compassionate and qualified care for seniors with dementia. Their GCMs have extensive experience in managing the unique challenges associated with dementia, such as memory loss, behavioral changes, and safety concerns. They can help families develop a care plan that promotes safety, dignity, and quality of life for their loved ones with dementia. Healthcare Power of Attorney: Elder Maze Solutions can assist you with navigating the legal aspects of healthcare decision-making for your loved one. They can help you understand the importance of a healthcare power of attorney and guide you through the process of appointing someone you trust to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so. Long-Term Care Planning: Elder Maze Solutions can help you explore various long-term care options, including assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and in-home care. They can provide you with information on costs, quality of care, and resources to help you make informed decisions about your loved one's future care needs. Advocacy and Support: Elder Maze Solutions serves as your advocate, ensuring that your loved one's voice is heard and their rights are protected. They can help you navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, communicate effectively with medical professionals, and access available resources and benefits. The Elder Maze Solutions Difference Elder Maze Solutions goes beyond simply providing services. They are committed to building trusting relationships with families and their loved ones. Their GCMs take the time to understand your unique situation, concerns, and goals. They provide personalized care plans that are flexible and adaptable to your loved one's changing needs. Benefits:* Reduced stress and burden on families* Improved quality of life for seniors* Increased peace of mind for families* Cost savings through proactive care planning* Personalized care plans tailored to individual needsWith Elder Maze Solutions by your side, you can feel confident that your elderly family members are receiving the care they deserve while maintaining their independence and quality of life. Let us help you navigate the journey of elder care with peace of mind. Give us a call today!