Thanksgiving With Aging Parents: What to Keep an Eye Out For
November 24, 2010
Happy day before Thanksgiving!
If you’re going to see your aging parents tomorrow, that’s a prime time to make sure they’re in good condition, experts say. Here are some warning signs to watch for, from Dorland Health’s Senior Services Report:
- Confusion, repeating themselves, memory problems
- Being unstable
- Weight change
- Mood problems; being aggressive or agitated
- Being disorganized or unkempt
The article, written by a nurse who works with a home-care company, explains what these signs may mean and what to do if you recognize them. These are just some of the things they say to watch out for. You can read the article here: “Coming Home for the Holidays to Aging Parents.”
If you have any questions about this post or need help finding senior-care options for a loved one, call 1-866-483-4896 to speak with a care advisor in your area.
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Those are good clues, but be careful. Holidays are inherently stressful. People don’t act their normal selves. Siblings from afar by distance or time want to remember everything like it used to be. That just isn’t so for anyone involved. Older adults too may act better than they really are.
My feeling is to enjoy the holidays for what they are–a time to share with those you care and love. Take the moment for all it’s pleasure and set aside the clinical role for a day or more. Give people a break. Surprisingly, you will still see and observe everything necessary about your parents and perhaps more importantly, yourself.
Happy Thanksgiving!
@gracefulaging on Twitter
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Thank you for sharing a different point of view, Gregory.
Leigh Ann Otte
Blogger, OurParents