I'm visiting for the holidays and have found that my loved one needs help! What do I do?

Posted: November 23, 2016, 12:51PM

Families are starting to gather for the holidays and sometimes we find that our loved ones have declined. Maybe you've not seen your family for a while and the change in them may be of concern. Do they need help to remain independent or do you need to consider a move where they can get help?

There are many services that can be provided where they live. Home delivered meals and in home (non-medical) assistance are two considerations. Do they need transportation? There are some options for getting your loved one to appointments. Has grocery shopping or prescription pick up become a problem? Many grocery stores will deliver groceries and prescriptions, and many pharmacies will also deliver.

If supportive in home services aren't sufficient to keep your care receiver independent and safe, you may need to consider other options. Can they live with you? Do you need to look at assisted living or nursing home care? Moving a family member into your home takes a great deal of thought. Do you have adequate space? Do you have steps? Where is the bathroom? Do you need to remodel your home to accommodate your loved one?

Moving to a facility may meet your loved one's needs. Assisted living offers medication administration, assistance with personal care, meals and supervision. Most often, assisted living is an out-of-pocket expense for residents. Veteran's benefits may be a resource for those who are eligible but there aren't many options for financial assistance in assisted living. The next level of care is nursing home. Medicaid can help pay for nursing home care when medical and financial criteria are met. To qualify for nursing home care, the applicant must need that level of care. The average nursing home cost in WV is approximately $86,870 per year, averaging a daily rate of $238. You will find that some cost more and some cost a little less.

What do you need to consider when evaluating your loved one? Should your relative live alone?

What about safety needs? Can they use the stove safely? Where is the bathroom? Where is the bedroom? Does your relative refuse to use a cane, walker or wheelchair to help with mobility? Does your loved one seem depressed or apathetic about living?

What about nutritional needs? Can they prepare food? Is there a demonstrated nutritional problem such as weight loss, illness or anemia? Does your relative forget to eat or eat a lot of inappropriate foods that will not supply nutritional needs?

Is personal hygiene a problem? Can your loved one get to the toilet when necessary? Are they unable to change clothing to remain clean and dry? Do you notice skin breakdown? Is there dirt on their skin or an aroma of urine or feces?

Are your loved one's medical needs being met? Do they take their medications appropriately? What is the likelihood of them taking medications inappropriately? Can they physically handle their meds and if they need injections such as insulin, can they do this? Can your loved one get help if needed? Are medical appointments being kept? Does hearing or visual impairment present unsafe situations?

How is your loved one's mental function? Do they get lost in familiar surroundings? Do they remember friends and family members? Is there a concern that your loved one will be the victim of a scam or unscrupulous person?

Are finances managed appropriately? Can they get to the bank? Pay their bills?

Depending on your loved one's needs, you may need to consider getting help in the home or change their living situation altogether.

We'd be happy to talk to you about your loved one's needs and the options available to them. We have several check lists that will give you sample questions to evaluate your family member's needs. Contact us for assistance!