Home Instead Senior Care Southeast Houston, Webster, Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston Bay Area Helping Seniors with Alzheimer’s Live at Home – Call us 281-484-0200.

SENIOR CARE HOUSTON: HOW TO DECIDE

I deal with a large number of seniors on a daily basis, since I work in a medical clinic that specializes in geriatrics. I know how challenging it can be to determine when it’s time to seek care for a loved one, especially since they may not go along with the idea willingly for fear of losing their independence.

However, it’s an important decision that relatives must make in order to ensure that their senior family member is safe and healthy living in their own home. There are a number of areas within the home that family members can check in order to determine if seniors are providing for themselves effectively when it comes to nutrition, housekeeping duties, personal hygiene, medication requirements as well as other responsibilities.

Take a close look around the kitchen, including the refrigerator, freezer, drawers and cupboards to get a feel for cleanliness and shopping habits. If there is food spoiled in the fridge, it may indicate that the person has trouble getting to the grocery store or is neglecting the cleaning. Kitchens also typically have many tight spaces; if these areas are dirty it may indicate additional trouble.

To get a better idea about what your loved one is eating, take a look at their grocery lists either before or after the shopping has been done. People who have difficulty with mobility or have other challenges with meal preparation, often purchase junk foods and other convenience items that are quick and easy; however, these may not be the healthiest options, since they are lacking in the much needed fresh fruits and vegetables.