How to recognize the need to provide care for a loved one

It can be very hard to watch as your loved one, who may be happy living independently, starts to decline physically, mentally, or both. You may not want to overstep or force yourself into a situation, but avoiding this issue could put your loved one or someone else in harm’s way.

It is natural to feel guilt or a sense of insecurity if you are thrust into a decision-making position, especially regarding the care for a parent or spouse. The big question is, how do you know when it is time? Everyone and every situation are different, but here are a few vital signs to watch out for…

Difficulty walking or unsteadiness

Do you notice your loved ones holding onto things to help them steady themselves? Have they fallen or had near-falls? Your goal should be to help them avoid falling and injuring themselves or being “trapped” because they cannot get up and are home alone.

Driving becomes difficult

With age comes slower reflexes, declined mobility, and fading memory. Operating a vehicle when impaired is extremely risky, not only for your loved one but also for others. Your goal should be to make sure your loved one is not impaired behind the wheel. If not for themselves, they might hurt those involved in an accident.

Not eating

Memory issues can create significant risks regarding cooking, including improperly using the stove or mixing up ingredients. Physical issues can create meal preparation, grocery shopping, and sanitation challenges, leading to scenarios where your loved one could be prone to choking. Suffering from malnutrition is terrible and leads to a compromised immune system, among other serious health issues. Your goal should be to help your loved one be as healthy and as safe as possible.

Lonely and unkempt

Some people are naturally messy or, as a personal decision, do not maintain good hygiene. As people age, outlive friends and loved ones and face their own mortality, sometimes a sense of loneliness or surrender seems to take grip. If your loved one is struggling and appears to be unkempt, they could be suffering more often than usual. This could be a sign of loneliness or some other mental or physical challenge. Regardless of the reason, your loved one can quickly spiral down to a dark place, enhancing their mental or physical decline. Do not let your loved one suffer from personal neglect. Your goal should be to help them maintain their personal dignity.

When to Start

The best time to start planning to help a loved one is before they need help while still playing the primary role in decision-making. Often, decision-making is influenced by finances and the cost of getting support.

If you are concerned about yourself or a loved one and feel overwhelmed by the financial aspects of helping or getting help, one of our financial planners might be able to help you. Your initial meeting is free of cost and confidential — visit www.seedpg.com/contact now.