The holidays are not a time that any of us want to be thinking about making decisions that could change the course of our loved ones’ lives; but for those of us that have seniors who live on their own, holiday visits are a time to evaluate their health and safety. Make sure that you take a close look at how your loved one is living, and determine if they might benefit from care assistance at home. This checklist can help you recognize the important warning signs; if you can’t answer “yes” to all of the statements below, then it’s time to suggest some changes.

• There are no spoiled foods in the fridge, and it, along with cupboards are well stocked with nutritious meal and snack items

• Their home appears in the same state as it always has, with no dirt and dust appearing in locations that are harder to reach

• Bills are not piling up at home or in the mailbox, indicating that they’re probably being paid

• Dates and dosages on medications match up with what’s on the prescription bottles and it appears as though he/she is managing her medications effectively and taking them according to schedule

• His/her appearance is neat and tidy and to the same standard as normal

• Neighbors and friends close to him/her seem to have no concerns about the health, safety or happiness of the senior

Via: Home Instead Senior Care

Keeping Aging Relatives in Austin Safe and Independent at Home by providing senior home care for Austin Seniors and Elders. Call Home Care Austin 512-347-9207.