Home Instead® encourages families to take notice of changes as they visit older loved ones
OMAHA, Neb., Nov. 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The number of travelers this Thanksgiving is expected to be the third highest in AAA forecast history. Whether traveling 20 miles or 2,000, families spending extra time with aging loved ones this season may notice changes in health, behavior, or environment that could signal a need for adjustments or assistance.
As a leading provider of in-home care for older adults, Home Instead® encourages families to keep their eyes open for opportunities to address safety concerns and help older family members thrive. Older Americans have access to a wide range of products and services that make their goal of aging in place possible, but many aren't aware of signs they may need some help.
Whether it's a change in mobility, loss of appetite or forgetfulness, addressing these issues are essential to ensuring your loved one is able to live safely as they maintain their independence.
"If you notice signs your aging loved one is struggling with daily tasks, don't shy away from difficult conversations," said Jenny Munro, gerontologist at Home Instead. "If you're concerned your loved one will resist the discussion or the proposed adjustments, gently remind them of their ultimate goal. By having an open dialogue, you can help them decide what steps to take so they can continue to live independently."
Munro suggests keeping an eye out for the following signs that indicate an older loved one may need assistance to continue aging in place safely.
If your loved one is showing signs of difficulty with daily living activities, consider enlisting a professional caregiver who can help with personal care, meal prep, and other household tasks that enable older adults to live safely and comfortably in their own homes for as long as possible.
"While there may be a desire to keep the conversation light during the holiday season, it's important to address loved ones' well-being if there are any concerns," Munro said. "Approach the conversation with empathy, follow your loved one's lead, and remember you can only do so much in a single visit. Try to keep it to one conversation this trip. Spend the bulk of your time together enjoying treasured traditions."
Creating a safe environment for aging in place requires continued conversation and encouragement. Home Instead offers a list of conversation starters and an action plan for successful aging. For more information about supporting your older loved ones' aging journey, visit www.homeinstead.com/care-resources.
ABOUT HOME INSTEAD, AN HONOR COMPANY
Home Instead, Inc. and its parent company, Honor, are expanding the world's capacity to care. With the world's largest home care network and the most advanced care platform, Honor and Home Instead are revolutionizing care for older adults, their families, and Care Professionals. Home Instead, Inc. is the premier home care franchisor through its network of independently owned and operated Home Instead franchise businesses. Combined, the network has more than 100,000 Care Professionals across 13 countries, meeting the growing needs of millions of older adults and their families worldwide. For more information, visit joinhonor.com and homeinstead.com.
SOURCE Home Instead
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