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Aged care guide 10 signs a senior needs help living at home
We all have selfdignity. We all want to remain independent and to believe that we are
in control of our own lives. That doesn’t change with age. Whether we are 21 or 81, we
want a bit of privacy and a lot of respect. These very human attributes are exactly the
things that can lead the aging to hide mistakes, falls and confusion from family
members and friends.
If you are beginning to suspect that your aging loved one is not as high functioning as
they would lead you to believe, review this list. If you see any of these signs and
symptoms occurring regularly, your aging loved one likely needs help and support at
home or in an aged home.
1. The house is cluttered or unkempt, laundry piles up 2. Uncertainty and confusion when performing oncefamiliar tasks, a loss of interest
in hobbies and activities 3. Food in the refrigerator is uneaten or spoiled. A parent might eat just enough to
get by, but suffer nutritionally. 4. Mail and bills are left to pile up 5. Forgetfulness, missing important appointments, forgetting to take medications –
or taking more than the prescribed dosage 6. Unexplained bruising 7. Trouble getting up from a seated position, difficulty with walking, balance and
mobility 8. Noticeable decline in grooming habits and personal care, unpleasant body odor,
infrequent showering and bathing, strong smell of urine in the house 9. Changes in mood or extreme mood swings 10.Unexplained dents and scratches on a car
There are many programs to assist an aging loved one, ranging from home care and
community support to living permanently in an aged care home. As the family member
responsible for making these important decisions, you need help and support. You need
clear, easily understandable, accessible information. www.careguidance.com.au is a
onestop resource designed to help you.