WHEN SHOULD I CALL SENIOR CHOICES?

Frequently when I am speaking to someone, explaining what SENIOR CHOICES does, an individual will say something like – “Yea, I know what you’re talking about.  My parents are getting older and I can see they are starting to need more help.  Maybe I’ll give you a call in a few months.”  My question then is what are you waiting for – one of them to fall and break a hip? 

The best time to contact SENIOR CHOICES is before there is an emergency.  Is there a definitive time to call?  No, every situation is different, but I have developed a list of warning signs.

Potential Warning Signals, Lifestyle Changes May Be Necessary

·        RECENT FALL(S) – What caused the fall?  Where was the fall?  Was he/she hurt?  If not this time, what about the next time?  There may be several fairly simple ways to eliminate the fall or to be sure help is available the next time it happens.

·        UNSAFE ACTIONS – Has the burner on the stove been left on or worse, a towel placed on a lit burner?  This is just an example of behavior that needs to be closely monitored for the individual’s safety.

·        MEMORY LOSS OR CONFUSION – Yes, we all have memory lapses.  However, with Alzheimer disease or dementia, the short-term memory is impaired first.  They may not be able to remember what happened earlier today.  With confusion, the Senior may start wondering and get lost.

·         REPEATING STORIES – Repeating a story or situation almost word for word over and over is a sign of Alzheimer or dementia.

·        RECENT HOSPITALIZATION – When a Senior returns from the hospital, does she/he need additional help either, temporary or permanently?  Could this hospitalization have been avoided? 

·        DIFFICULTY WITH MEDICATIONS – Medications need to be taken on a regular schedule.  Is a reminder needed as to what pill to take at what time?

·        NOT EATING PROPERLY – Not eating properly or consistently eating frozen meals can cause severe health issues.

·        LOSS OF SPOUSE – This is a difficult time for everyone.  It may be a time when the adult children realize how much the deceased spouse was caring for the surviving spouse.

·        ONE SPOUSE IS THE CAREGIVER FOR THE OTHER – Is the caregiver getting enough rest?  Is the caregiver able to get away from the care receiver and relax and socialize?  This is so important for the caregiver’s health and well being.

·        ALWAYS WORRIED ABOUT PARENT(S) – If you are always worried about your parents there probably is a reason. Trust your instincts.   It is better to err on the side of caution than to be sorry at later. 

 SENIOR CHOICES offers a free half-hour consultant.  SENIOR CHOICES serves Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties.