Traditionally, a “senior citizen” was a person aged 65 and older. Now, 80 is the new 60 and many people are delaying retirement, and a true senior is often someone in their 70’s, 80’s or even 90’s. People are living longer, and their needs are diverse.
If you are a support person for a senior, you can help to protect them in many critical areas, especially with respect to their health, personal safety, and finances. By observing and asking appropriate questions, as a support person, you can help to improve the quality of life for a senior to make sure that they are enjoying their golden years and not experiencing harm.
Observe the environment:
Is the home or living area clean and uncluttered? Are medications organized and do they appear to be taken on schedule? Is there nutritious food and beverage in the fridge and pantry? Does the living environment smell and look clean and germ-free? Does the senior live alone or with others? Are pets clean and well-cared-for?
Observe the individual:
Does the senior appear to be clean and properly dressed and groomed? Do you see any cuts, bruises, or marks on the skin? Is the senior sharp and oriented to their environment? Are her eyes bright and sparkling or dull, cloudy or droopy? Does he eat healthy foods and drink plenty of water and other appropriate beverages? Do you see medications being taken on schedule? What activities does the senior engage in- are they getting fresh air and exercise and social interaction? Does the senior have access to a phone or emergency button to call for help if needed?
Ask questions:
Do you feel safe in your home environment? Do family members or others ask you for money or do other things that make you feel uncomfortable? Do you receive phone calls or mail solicitations asking for money or making inappropriate or confusing requests? Is your will, trust and power of attorney up to date? Do you feel financially secure? If not, what are your concerns? Do you feel comfortable with your doctors and medical providers and are you taking your medications on schedule? Are you drinking enough water and eating fruits and vegetables to avoid dehydration?
Based upon your observations and the answers you receive (or don’t receive) to these questions, you may need to seek additional support for the senior in your life.
At Chechele Law, we are a support resource for you. If you have concerns for the senior in your life and you don’t know where to turn, contact us and we will help you sort out what is needed and refer you to other professionals who can also help to support you. Great home health care agencies, physicians, professional organizers, home companions, meal delivery services, drivers, social workers and mental health professionals and law enforcement are part of our team. Allow us to be your support person as you help to care for the very special senior in your life.
The special senior in the illustration is my 85 year old mommy. She is so very special to me and much of the information I have shared with you is based on my experience in being a support person for her!