The holidays are just right around the corner. More than half-million West Virginians will travel home for the holidays. For those who are visiting aging parents and grandparents, here are a few signs you can look for to ensure your parents/grandparents are managing well.

At most, this list could start a conversation with your aging loved one. Find out how you can be helpful. Being involved and aware is a good first step. These conversations may be difficult, but necessary to ensure your loved ones are safe at home.

• Do you notice unopened mail piled up or “past due” bills? 
• Is the house maintained, both inside and outside? Are dished piled up in the sink? Are things broken? Are all utilities working?
• Do you see any unused medications or missing medications? Do you know if they are able to afford their medications?
• Are your parents mobile? Do they shuffle when they walk? Are they able to manage stairs safely? 
• As we age, our social circle becomes smaller. Look for signs of isolation or depression in their personal hygiene – bathed daily, clothes clean and how much social contact they may have with others.   
• What’s in the refrigerator or panty? Are they eating well? Groceries tend to be the one place aging adults spend less money on when having to choose between paying for medicines or food. 
• If your parents drive, take a walk around the vehicle. Do you notice any new dents or dings in the vehicle or the garage? Take a drive with them. 
• Are they able to carry on a conversation or do they seem confused more often? 
• Are they needing additional equipment to remain safe in their home? Grab bars in the shower, shower chair, wheelchair ramp, etc?
• Are they missing medical/dental appointments? Either forgetting or due to lack of transportation?
• If they don’t have transportation, how do they get to appointments, get their medicines, or get to the grocery store?

  
WV Aging and Disability Resource Centers are located through the state and are here to help answer any questions you may have. Give us a call 866-981-2372, email [email protected] or visit one of our offices.