CHECKLIST
When visiting your elderly mother on Mother's Day, it’s important to observe a few key areas to ensure she’s maintaining her independence and well-being. Here’s a checklist to guide you:
1. **Mobility and Movement**: Watch how she gets around. Is she moving comfortably and confidently, or does she have difficulty walking, standing, or sitting? Check for any new signs of imbalance or stiffness.
2. **Home Safety**: Look for tripping hazards like loose rugs, clutter, or poor lighting. Ensure that grab bars are securely installed in necessary places like the bathroom. Smoke detectors and emergency contact information should be up-to-date and easily accessible.
3. **Nutrition and Meal Prep**: Peek into the kitchen. Is there fresh food available? Are there signs she’s cooking and eating balanced meals, or are there numerous takeout boxes and expired groceries? Ask about her mealtime routines.
4. **Personal Hygiene**: Gently observe whether she’s maintaining her personal grooming habits. Look for changes in appearance, body odor, or signs of neglect in clothing and cleanliness.
5. **Medication Management**: Check her medications. Are they organized well? Is she taking them as prescribed? A filled medication organizer can be a good sign of adherence to her regimen.
6. **Cognitive Function**: Engage in conversation and note any changes in memory, concentration, or confusion. Remember, everyone has off days, but repeated lapses may need attention.
7. **Social Engagement**: Ask about her activities and social life. Is she still connecting with friends, family, or participating in community events? Isolation can affect mental and physical health.
8. **Household Management**: Observe her ability to manage bills, appointments, and daily tasks. Is paperwork piling up? Are there notices of unpaid bills? This can indicate difficulties in managing her affairs.
9. **Health Changes**: Talk about any recent doctor visits or health concerns. Check for unexplained weight loss or gain, changes in sleep patterns, or ongoing health issues that might not have been mentioned before.
10. **Emotional Well-being**: Gauge her mood and emotional health. Look for signs of depression or anxiety, such as withdrawal from activities she once enjoyed, or increased irritability.
11. **Assistive Devices**: If she uses aids like walkers, hearing aids, or glasses, ensure they’re in good condition and being used when needed.
While observing these areas, approach with sensitivity and love. If you notice any troubling signs, consider discussing your observations with her in a supportive manner. It might also be beneficial to speak with her healthcare provider for further insights and recommendations. Most importantly, express your love and appreciation, and make the most of your time together on this special day.