As much as your senior parent may want to preserve his or her independence, certain medical or psychological circumstances could prevent this. While the thought of giving up their independence is often unpleasant for seniors, it may be the right thing to do. Here are some things to look for that indicate your parent can no longer live independently.
Impaired Vision
While impaired vision is common among the elderly, issues with peripheral vision, partial blindness, and diseases such as closed-angle glaucoma may heighten your loved one’s risk for accidents and injury. Poor vision is a significant risk factor in falls, and while certain treatments such as cataract removal can enhance visual function, other issues with sight may be permanent.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional home care. Roseville families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place.
Incontinence
If your loved one has accidents involving urine and stool, and if he or she isn’t cleaned soon after, skin breakdown and excoriation may develop, which can also lead to pain and serious infections. In the event your parent suddenly develops urinary incontinence, dribbling, or leaking, make an appointment with the physician.
Incontinence may be caused by diuretic medications. These drugs are used in the management of high blood pressure, and they cause frequent urination. If your parent is incontinent because of diuretics, the physician might prescribe an alternative medication to treat high blood pressure that is less likely to alter the pattern of urination.
Limited Mobility
If your loved one has limited mobility and is having difficulty walking and maintaining his or her balance, living independently may no longer be an option. Coupled with impaired vision, mobility issues may put your parent at risk for falling. Bring your parent to the doctor if he or she develops an unsteady gait, weakness, or severe morning stiffness. The physician may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications to relieve pain and increase mobility. If pain medications, physical therapy, and other methods fail to increase mobility, consider alternate living options for your parent.
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional elder care. Roseville, California, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Cognitive Decline
Cognitive decline can make it dangerous to live independently. For example, if your parent falls or becomes ill, he or she may not be able to call for help. Diminished cognitive function may also place your parent in danger of getting burned when trying to cook or ingesting household chemicals such as liquid floor cleaners, laundry soap, or bleach. If you notice signs of forgetfulness, poor decision-making, or repetitive speech patterns, make an appointment with the doctor. The medical expert can perform an examination to determine if your loved one has cognitive decline.
Living independently is important for seniors who want to maintain a high quality of life. For some, this simply means receiving help with tasks that have become more challenging to manage over time. Even when families have the best intentions, they may not have the time to provide the care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. If your loved one needs help for a few hours a day or a few days a week, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a trusted provider of respite care Roseville seniors can depend on. Call us at (916) 226-3737 to schedule a free in-home consultation.