It has been quite some time since you’ve had the chance for a nice, long visit with Mom. Now that the holiday season is here, you will have some uninterrupted time to catch up. Naturally, you will want to make the most of this time together, but it’s also a great time to assess how she is really doing, and if there are any changes in her health that perhaps have gone undetected through phone calls and FaceTime.
To help you determine areas of possible concern to assess, Golden Harmony, a leading provider of elderly care in Raleigh and nearby areas, has compiled a list of questions to ask seniors. You may wish to ask some of these questions to the senior directly, while others may be answered by paying attention to the home environment and the person herself.
Physical/Mental Health
- Has she gained or lost weight?
- Is she stumbling or holding onto furniture or the wall to get around?
- Is she actively engaged in enjoyable activities?
- Is she eating more or less than usual?
- Does she seem happy and content?
- Does she seem short of breath?
- Do you notice any bruises or other injuries that could indicate a fall?
- Is she spending time with friends?
- Is she having trouble falling or staying asleep?
- Does the senior seem to be moving more slowly and cautiously?
Cognitive Functioning
- Are you noticing any unusual behaviors?
- Does the senior seem more forgetful or confused than usual?
- Is she misplacing items, only to find them in unexpected places, such as the car keys in the refrigerator?
- Is she repeating questions or statements in conversations?
- Is she struggling to remember the names of familiar people or objects?
- Are there pieces of mail or bills that have not been opened?
Elder/Financial Abuse
- Has she cosigned for a loan for anyone?
- Does she suddenly have a new “friendship” with someone whose motives may be questionable?
- Does the senior seem more timid or anxious than usual?
- Has she provided anyone with personal information over the phone or internet?
- Are there any changes in her banking activity?
- Is she communicating with strangers online?
Home Maintenance
- Is the home cleaned to the senior’s typical standards?
- Is there clutter in the home that could pose a fall risk?
- Are there any hazards you’re noticing, such as scorch marks on pans or the countertop that could indicate inattention to cooking?
- Are the bed linens being changed regularly?
- Is the yard maintained?
- Is the laundry clean and put away?
If you have any concerns about a senior’s safety or wellbeing, regardless of how small, home care can help. Contact Golden Harmony at 919-426-7522 to learn about our professional elderly care in Raleigh and the surrounding areas.