Its often after a family gathering or occasion when adult children haven’t seen their ageing parents for a while that suddenly spending significant time together you notice drastic changes in your parent’s mobility, memory and overall health. Such signs of diminished capabilities may be:
- Forgetfulness
- Repeated Stories (if this is out of character)
- Confusion
- Non recognition of family members
- Unsteady gait
- Reduced eating
- Appointments missed/forgotten
- Unpaid bills
- Clutter in a once clutter free home
- Less cleanliness of self/clothes
If any of these signs are of concern to your family then it’s worthwhile having a family discussion on what you can do to assist, and how and to whom you can share the responsibilities. It’s important everyone is transparent and across all decisions so that no one feels they are being left out or given more tasks and responsibilities than another person.
Responsibilities could be categorized into financial, medical and social. It is also critical that the legal side with regards to wills, executors and power of attorney have been covered by a Solicitor.
Financial information including bank accounts, investments and financial advisors should all be up to date and everyone should know who to contact in an emergency.
Documenting medical wishes and ensuring your parents continue to see their regular health professionals is essential for their well-being.
Keeping your parents active with social activities and keeping their minds stimulated is pivotal to their health and well-being.
If your parents’ mental or physical state is keeping them from engaging in activities outside their home, or they are struggling to cope, then it’s time to engage some assistance or look at moving them to an Aged Care Facility.
Whilst change won’t be without it’s limitations and transition could cause temporary angst, long term it will give your parents more mobility, possibly less physical pain and more social and intellectual engagement and most importantly peace of mind for you that your parents are safe and being cared for.
If you would like to organize a tour of one of our Aged Care Homes in Victoria, please contact us on 1300 104 663 or visit us here at homestyleagedcare.com.au
