What Are 7 Common Signs That Aging Parents Need A New Home?

What are some common signs to look for?

Some of us are fortunate to have aging parents who do not need any help.  They are in fact still contributing to their families and communities.

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But there are many older adults who do need help from others, especially if they live into their 80s, 90s and beyond.  It almost seems as though things start to change overnight.  Our parents start getting forgetful, Dad is no longer able to drive, Mom is starting to lose weight, their clothes may not be as clean as they should be.  Our once independent parents are at the stage in their lives where they need help.  This is the time when adult children often need to take the reins and review the situation. 

Worrying About Their Safety

Has either parent fallen recently?  Are they currently living in a two story home and stairs are becoming an issue?  Do you notice any physical injuries or a change in their mood?  Are they not taking their medication as they should?  Has cooking a simple meal become a challenge?  This is when you know that a change in their home environment is in their best interest.

Health

Older adults are healthier then ever, but when our parents reach their 80s, 90s and beyond we notice they start to slow down.  They are not as active as they used to be.  They may have failing eyesight, confusion, unsteadiness, forgetfulness, low stamina, poor health.  They may start to withdraw from the things that used to interest them.  A combination of these issues are indications that a parent will benefit from more assistance in daily living.

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Personal Hygiene

A change in hygiene habits is often a sign that aging parents need help.  If your aging parents seem to be wearing the same clothes every day, or if your Dad is consistently unshaven.  If he or she is beginning to have an odor, gently suggest that they may need some help with their daily personal care. 

Housekeeping

If their previously well-maintained home is sliding.  They have difficulties with simple chores around the house.  Their dishes and laundry are not getting done.  The corners of their home have cobwebs.  It’s no longer easy for them to scrub the floors or bathtub. Mail and newspapers are piling up on the countertops.  Maintaining the outside of the house is too much for them to handle. These are signs that living on their own may not be safe. A clean house is crucial to our aging parents’ health.

Financial Management

Are your parents not paying their bills on time?  Are they not able to manage their checkbook?  Are there stacks of unopened mail? Are there signs that they’ve been spending excessively?  Are they getting calls from creditors?  The could mean that there are some underlining issues that need to be addressed.

Meals

Take notice if your aging parents are losing weight unexpectedly.  This can indicate that they are not getting to the grocery store.  It could be physical health issues, or memory issues.  Check to see if there is expired or spoiled food in the refrigerator, and watch for empty shelves.  These signs could indicate that they are not remembering to eat or are not eating good nutritious foods.  A place that provides regular balanced meals could greatly enhance and sustain their lives.

Social Life

As people age, their circle of friends often diminishes.  However it’s important for older adults to have a social life to help maintain a healthy physical and emotional balance.  Socializing keeps people young at heart, emotionally vibrant, and mentally sharp.  A good assisted or independent living community can offer social activities that can maintain quality of life and mental well-being.

Closing Thoughts

Of course, each circumstance differs.  Some older adults will do well moving from a larger family home into a smaller, easier to maintain home, or a single story town home.  Some will enjoy a more carefree, lower maintenance home in a 55+ community, or others will need more support and assistance in their daily living.  Whichever the case, you know your aging parents best.  Follow your intuition if something seems off, assess the situation, and help your aging parents live a happy, healthy and full life.

If you would like more information please contact me for a no obligation consultation.  I would be happy to discuss your specific situation and help you navigate these difficult waters.

My name is Maria Mastrolonardo, I am a Illinois Certified Probate Real Estate Specialist with RE/MAX Enterprises. This is ALL I do; I help guide families through the process of selling real estate in probate and I would be happy to help you as well.

Call me today at: (630) 248-6077, or contact me here

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