Aging parents may require some special care. As your parent gets older, you may notice changes in their behavior and physical capabilities. That’s natural, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t ignore any major lifestyle changes. Here are some warning signs your parent should not be living alone that you should be aware of.
They Have Trouble With Basic Care
Personal hygiene is one of the most basic ways to control one’s livelihood. Still, when basic care starts to falter, that’s a clear sign something is awry. Your parent may start to neglect self-care because they’re afraid of falling. Also, they may face depression or loneliness and not feel the need to shower or eat. Lookout for signs of depression, rapid weight gain, weight loss, or other behaviors outside your parent’s normal lifestyle. A lack of basic self-care should raise alarm that your parent has trouble living alone.
They Get Lost Easily
The home is a sanctuary where you feel comfortable and secure. However, if you notice your parent getting lost in familiar places, that may be a sign of a larger issue. Memory loss is one of the most common symptoms of dementia or Alzheimer’s. If your parent starts to forget their location or basic information, there’s more happening in their brain than what meets the eye. Consult a doctor to get a certified diagnosis. Additionally, you may need to consider assisted living or an at-home caregiver to provide the support your parent needs.
It’s Too Dangerous
Another warning sign your parent should not live alone is that it’s too dangerous. Falling is a big concern for the elderly. Whether it’s from a loss of balance or there are too many hazards in the residence, even basic household activities can result in a serious accident or injury. More so, if your parents live alone, they may not have the resources or ability to call for help. If you notice cuts, bruises, or other noticeable injuries on your parent, start to safety-proof their home immediately.
If your parent feels unsafe at home, it may be time to consider a medical alert system. Senior Safety’s safety alert for seniors is the perfect solution. They’re simple and affordable to provide the best at-home coverage for anyone. These systems rely on 24/7 monitoring with EMD-certified operators for quick response times and general peace of mind. With rates as low as $19 per month, they’re also cheaper than many phone plans. Call now for more information on how to order a medical alert system today.
