family caregivers
Senior care may be hampered by dangerous clutter
Most of us have “been there,” in the clutter zone, at some point. But generally, the clutter is manageable. Unfortunately, often this is not the case with elderly loved ones who have too much stuff. Frequently they can’t organize it or throw out because of physical or cognitive limitations, or emotional attachments to the clutter.
Also unfortunately, family caregivers may need to be the ones to step in to get the clutter under control. This isn’t just to make the living environment more pleasant. It can be a matter of health and safety. If you’re wondering whether an elderly loved has a serious clutter problem, it’s a good idea to do a walk-through in their home:
- Is there rotten or expired food in the fridge or cupboards? Your elderly relative may suffer food poisoning or fail to eat because foods are unappetizing.
- Are kitchen cabinets piled with dishes and pans that are difficult to get out or put away? Seniors may avoid preparing food or be injured by dishes tumbling from high shelves.
- Is the bathroom full of expired medications and/or are toiletries piled on the vanity or floor? Falls, slipping, and serious reactions from medications are possible.
- Is the house full of old magazines and newspapers? In addition to being a fire hazard, piles of paper can attract rodents or cause elderly people to trip.
- Has the basement or attic become a giant closet full of unused items? Again, fire and rodents are risks. Mold can also become a dangerous health hazard.
- Are stairways or hallways blocked with shoes, papers, or other clutter? Stairs are an especially dangerous place for storing items, particularly if they are not well lighted. A fall downstairs can cause serious injury.
If you observe even one of these situations, it’s time to sit down and have a talk with the senior about how you can come up with solutions to make their living space safer and more pleasant. Many organizations and other resources are out there to make the task easier. You can find several of them here: A Caregiver’s Guide to Spot Clutter Creep
Senior Care is personal to us. Request information about our home care services in Northern Colorado, OR call us at 970-494-0289.
Parents’ senior home care depends on family involvement
Knowing where to start can be the biggest hurdle when you’re planning your parents’ senior care. What do they want? What can they—and you—afford? How do you find the resources and support you need for successful home care?
Breaking the planning process down, step by step, can make decisions on home care more manageable and less stressful:
Talk to your parents. Ask them what they want and think they need. You can find pointers on starting the conversation at http://www.4070.talk.com- Find local resources. In Northern Colorado, visit the websites of the Foundation on Aging for Larimer County and the Larimer County Office on Aging.
- Assist your parents with a health assessment. This should cover physical, emotional, and mental health.
- Include other family members. Make sure you have the input and support of siblings, other family members, and close friends.
- Consider the options. Think of various services your elderly parents may need. Keep an initial care plan flexible.
- Remember that aging is an ongoing process. Think about the types of care your parents may need in future.
- Consider finances. Be aware of your parents’ finances and think about ways to fund care. Speaking to a financial planner may be helpful.
- Help your parents stay in their own home for as long as possible. Consult the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) for information on home adaptations for aging in place.
- Think about end-of-life decisions. Everyone should have a will and make end-of-life decisions well in advance of the time that these are necessary.
- Be sure you have support. Seek support from family members and friends, or visit http://www.caregiverstress.com for assistance.
Senior Care is personal to us. Request information about our home care services in Northern Colorado, OR call us at 970-494-0289.
