Research shows that the global population of elderly people will double by 2025. That means that more of us may need to deal with parents who need assistance as they age. The rapid aging population in Ireland is becoming a financial bomb. There’s no plan ready to deal with the dramatic rise in people aged 65 and above. The Central Statistics Office shows that by 2021, the number of senior people will have reached 200,000.

By 2046, the gap between the elderly and the young people will amplify even further, trigger warning over the need for better nursing home care. How do you know when you need to step in and help? After a certain age parents won’t be able to live alone and enjoy their independence. They will need assistance and it’s up to the children to provide it. Here are some signs that your parents might need a helping hand. – See more at: https://seniorcare2017.wpengine.com/blog_information/14-06-16/7_Signs_that_Your_Older_Loved_Ones_Might_Need_a_Helping_Hand.aspx#sthash.cCJT6RpI.dpuf

1. Limited Mobility

Are your parents having more difficulty getting around? Are they finding it hard to get out of a chair, or to get in and out of the car? Talk to their doctor to see if joint pain or muscle weakness means that it might be time that they get a walker or a cane. See what you can do to make their home easier for them, removing obstacles, or making accessibility improvements.

2. Medical Issues

If one of your parents has suffered a stroke, or has diabetes or other medical issues, then they may need your assistance. Find out as much as you can about their condition and what they need. Sometimes getting them housekeeping assistance or a van service can help them continue living an independent life.

3. Poor Memory
We’re all forgetful at times, but if this reaches a point where it’s a problem for your parents, they may need assistance. Have they forgotten to pay bills or show up for appointments? Do they get lost? Forget to take their medications? These could all be indications that they need help. Talk to their doctor to get an assessment. One of the most common health conditions in seniors is Alzheimer’s Disease, a widespread form of dementia. Although it is incurable, there are ways to ease their pain through proper home care.
Parents

4. Poor Appetite

If your parents have lost their appetite, aren’t cooking or eating real meals anymore, or are losing weight, this can be a bad sign. They may become dehydrated, which is dangerous, especially in the summer. The problem may be that they find cooking too difficult, or it may be that food just doesn’t taste good anymore. One approach is to look for a meal delivery service, or a caregiver who can ensure they eat and drink.
5. Poor Hygiene

Has one of your parents stopped brushing their hair or teeth? Do they wear the same clothes day after day, in spite of spills or stains? When a person stops caring about their physical appearance, it can be a sign of Alzheimer’s, depression, or some other medical or cognitive issue. Talk to them to see if there’s a simple answer, or if you need to inquire about medical issues.

Grandparents

6. Injuries and Bruises

If one of your parents is showing unexplained bruises, burns, or scrapes, it may be a sign that they are having difficulty around the house. You can assess the accessibility of their home to see what can be improved, or look into a housekeeper or in home caregiver, who can help keep them safe at home.

7. Personality changes

Are your parents acting different than they ever did before? Doing odd, unexpected things? Accusing people or acting paranoid? There are medical issues such as dementia, Alzheimer’s and others, which could be responsible. If the changes are more pronounced in the evening, it could also be a sign of late-day confusion. In that case, getting more sunlight and keeping a nightlight on can help.

Many seniors don’t want to admit that they need help from their kids. They don’t become a burden and they certainly don’t want to be admitted into a health care facility. It’s natural for seniors to want to maintain their independence. However, no matter how well they are doing, kids should offer them a helping hand just to make sure their health conditions are not too serious.

Author Bio: Edward Francis is a regular writer and blogger. He usually writes on social issues and issues related to healthcare. He is also writing for a site https://www.foresthc.com/ where you can get elderly care homes, retirement villages and UK residential nursing homes.

– See more at: https://seniorcare2017.wpengine.com/blog_information/14-06-16/7_Signs_that_Your_Older_Loved_Ones_Might_Need_a_Helping_Hand.aspx#sthash.cCJT6RpI.dpuf