Happy Thanksgiving!
If you’re visiting elderly parents, in between stuffing yourself with turkey, you might want to let your eyeballs roam a bit. Make sure Mom and Dad are doing OK living by themselves.
Since many people visit parents during the holidays, experts remind us every year to address issues if we see them. Making sure parents get a little help now is far preferable than waiting for a crisis.
USA Today reports:
“It’s really best to have early conversations with parents about what they need and want so they can age in place,” says [Sandy Markwood, chief executive officer of the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging]. “Sometimes what they might need is a ride to the doctor or a home-delivered meal or someone to help with chores. It’s rare that they need full support overnight.” …
Markwood suggests leaning on your parents’ neighbors if you don’t live nearby. “Make sure they have your phone number in case they need to call you,” she says.
The article also goes over some things to take note of during your visit, such as how your parents look and what’s in the fridge. If you think your parents do need help, you can read about a variety of senior-care options here.
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Leigh Ann Otte is a freelance writer who specializes in aging issues and senior care. She covers both for the Today Senior Living blog.
