Seniors often stay in their homes longer than they should. On your next visit, refer to this safety checklist for aging parents to assess how they’re doing.
For those of us with aging parents, it’s a good idea to get a first-hand look at their living conditions and ability to care for themselves. As you look for signs of compromised health or happiness, keep a discreet eye out for these telltale signs that they may need help sooner than later.
Room by Room Checklist of What to Look For in the Home of an Older Person:
Problems to Look for in the Kitchen
- Lack of fresh food; signs of reliance on boxed, canned, and frozen foods
- Spoiled food in the refrigerator and expired items in the pantry
- Evidence of burn marks on countertop or cookware
- Broken appliances
What to Check in the Bedroom and Bath
- Unorganized, outdated or unused prescription medication
- Out-of-place chairs or other makeshift supports
- Excessive undone laundry
Telltale Signs in the Living Areas
- Burned out lightbulbs
- Excessive clutter or trash in the home
- Piles of unopened mail
- Evidence of sleeping in common areas
Condition of Vehicles, Garage, and Outdoor Areas
- Dents, scratches or other unexplained damage on the car
- Signs of delayed maintenance on the home and grounds
These signs at home can be telltale indicators that it’s time to talk to your parents about in home care or continuing care. If you noticed several of the items on the safety checklist for aging parents, call us first.
Members of the HomeTransitionPros.com collective work with families and individuals to create a personalized plan for a new phase of life. Get in touch today to learn how we can help you plan your next steps.
