Knowing when an elderly person can’t live alone anymore is a huge first step in keeping them safe and engaged. However, it can be a tough decision to make. Understanding what to look for, what help options are available, and what steps to take once you know you need help can reduce the strain.
Signs That an Elderly Person Can’t Live Alone
The first step in knowing when an elderly parent or loved one can’t live alone any longer is understanding the key signs that they are struggling with normal activities of daily living. If you notice any of these signs, it could mean that the person can no longer live on their own safely.
Neglected Personal Hygiene
Many ADLs involve basic skills for personal hygiene, such as bathing, grooming, and toileting. When these skills start to fail, you may notice that a person appears unkempt. They may not bathe frequently enough, or their hair will be uncombed. The same clothes will start to appear over and over, and they have clearly not been washed between wearing.
If you notice these signs of a breakdown in personal hygiene skills, it may be time to consider getting your loved one help with daily tasks. Older adults who can’t safely live alone often suffer health consequences. Skipped medication, improper nutrition, and unsanitary conditions can all cause health complications. Without assistance with ADLs, a senior could easily let a minor injury turn into a major infection.
Unpaid Bills
Failing to open mail or pay bills is a common problem for seniors who are struggling to maintain their independence. Some people don’t open bills for fear of the cost, but many often just forget to pay them. This is the most likely cause if you notice that the mail hasn’t been taken in for days at a time.
If you notice that bills are piling up, start a conversation about why. Help connect your loved one with resources for help. This is best addressed as early as possible, before it snowballs into a major financial problem. Also, keep in mind that leaving the mail outside poses safety risks by sending a signal to would-be thieves that no one is home.
Neglected bills and careless spending can have serious financial consequences for seniors, many of whom live within very tight budgets. Older adults who have trouble making sound financial decisions are also more likely to fall victim to scams.
Without intervention, an elderly person who should not be living alone might suffer enough financial losses that they also lose their homes and retirement savings. This will reduce their current quality of life and likely limit their future care options.
Excess Clutter
If you notice a lot of clutter around a senior’s home, they may be struggling with housekeeping tasks. This is especially true if they have always been a neat person. Other signs of trouble with home care include dust buildup on furniture, unwashed dishes, and dirty floors.
Personality Changes
A major problem with seniors living alone when they can’t take care of themselves is that they become isolated and withdrawn. This can cause emotional distress and personality changes. It may also be an indicator of cognitive decline.
Compromised Safety
Safety is a primary concern for older adults living alone. If you notice repeated safety issues, it may be time to discuss care options. Some examples include:
- Failing to lock doors
- Leaving the stove on
- Not adjusting the thermostat
Falling is another major safety concern for older adults living alone. They can cause serious injury and hospitalizations. Pay attention to frequent bruising or cuts that might indicate unreported falls around the home.
Where To Get Help for a Loved One Who Can’t Live on Their Own
If you have a friend or family member who is struggling to live independently, you can get help. First, you must discuss your concerns with them. Having that first conversation with them is often the hardest part.
Enlisting a healthcare provider or trusted attorney to provide an unbiased opinion may help illustrate your point more clearly. Some other avenues for support include:
- Churches and clergy members
- Local senior living communities
- Senior centers
An older adult who is struggling to live alone may deny some of the issues or downplay mistakes and risks. However, you can — and should — stay firm when stating your concerns and offering help. Having a list of residential care and support options ready during this conversation can go a long way to putting an older adult’s mind at ease.
Senior Living Options for Elderly People Who Can’t Live by Themselves
You have several options for a parent who can no longer live alone. The first is to provide care yourself. This is often the most economical choice, especially if you are retired or otherwise available most days. However, there are major drawbacks to providing direct care for a loved one.
Perhaps the greatest is the strain it can put on you, your family, and your relationship with the parent you are caring for. Caregiver burnout is a very real thing, and it can cause serious emotional and physical health consequences. You will also need to contend with the fact that you may not know how to best care for your parent.
Professional caregivers are trained to serve older adults and meet their unique needs. Many families choose to hire one to provide companionship, housekeeping services, and help with ADLs.
Residential care and assisted living communities are other options. Finding a senior living community that provides care with ADLs, enrichment activities, and supervision can take a huge burden off of you. The Westbrook Care Center provides senior living in Kearney, MO, where your parent will receive appropriate care so you can enjoy your time with them.
Do You Know an Elderly Person Who Can’t Live Alone?
There comes a time in many people’s lives when living alone is not safe or rewarding. Luckily, there are long-term living options. The staff at Westbrook Care Center is trained to provide personalized care and enriching activities for residents in independent living and residential care settings. Schedule a tour of our center today.