8 Warning Signs That Your Parents Are Getting Old

My colleague returned from a vacation at her parents; she was faced with the reality that her parents were losing strength and independence. Her visit was one filled with excitement, joy sadness and stress; she then happened to also read an article by a gerontologist in a popular magazine about the 8 warning signs of aging.   

The 8 warning signs of aging:

1. Aging could cause a change in eating habits and weight loss:

You may find that your parent that usually enjoyed cooking is now happy with frozen dinner or a take out. There could also be loss of taste and diminished energy that could be due to depression or illness. Once you understand the cause of weight and appetite fluctuation you could be able to know if there is a cause for concern.

2. He/she is negligent in personal hygiene and cleanliness:

You may find your spic and span mum looks disheveled; the trash is piled up, and there is rotting food in the fridge. The grass is overgrown, the light bulbs are out and the home is no longer a safe place to live in due to poor lightning or fall hazards. All this are a sign of health-related problems.

3. Your parent/parent is very forgetful:

There is no need for concern if your parent can’t find his/her glasses; however there is a cause of concern if your parent forgets that he wears glasses or gets lost on a familiar route home.

4. Your parent experiences significant mood changes: 

Does your parent experience angry outbursts, sullen withdrawn mood and sullen withdrawn behavior and feel blue? Depression goes unrecognized and untreated in many seniors; they are also reluctant to seek medical help. Observe your parents and ask how they are feeling and encourage them to seek medical help if there are unexplained changes in their mood.

5. Your parent misuses prescribed medications:

Be cautious and note if your parents are taking the prescribed medications regularly; also note that the prescriptions have not expired. Your parents should be aware of the potential side effects and drug interactions as misuse of prescribed medicines may lead to deteriorating health with sometimes a trip to the emergency room.

6. There is a decrease in socialization and activity level of the parents:

Do you notice your otherwise active mum become more sedentary and passive or your dad get disinterested in the activities of daily life? They may seem isolated or depressed after they have lost loved ones. It is very important that we encourage elders to engage regularly with friends, family and community for the emotional and physical well-being.

7. Your parent could have difficulty driving:

Your parent could be very agitated and distracted while driving that could put other drivers and pedestrians at a risk; it is best that elders avoid driving on highways and at nights. Make sure you arrange alternative means of transportation so that your parent does not become isolated.

8. You parent/parents could be mishandling finances:

Take the warning sign if your daddy has unpaid bills piled up, taxes not paid or your mum struggles to know where the money went. You could help if your parent/parents are not tight lipped about money. This overwhelming sign could also indicate something as serious as dementia.

To conclude be cautious when you find these warning signs and be sure to help.  

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