When Thanksgiving Reveals Caregiving Concerns

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving Day. More than 1.3 million Tennesseans are expected to travel 50 miles or more during the Thanksgiving holiday time this year, according to AAA. 

Are you on your way to visit elderly relatives you haven't seen in awhile? Are you ready for what you might encounter?

Holiday celebrations during the months of November and December are among the few occasions when multiple generations gather under one roof. Family gatherings may present an unexpected surprise. It may be the first time that adult children may observe unmistakable signs of physical or cognitive decline in aging loved ones.

What are the signs that all may not be well with Mom and Dad?

1. Mail is piled up or unopened; you see notices from creditors

2. You see carpet stains from dropping things

3. You detect an odor of urine in the house

4. Mom’s family recipes are burned or not cooked enough

5. There is insufficient food in the pantry or decaying food in the refrigerator

6. Pets aren't being cared for

7. Home maintenance tasks are left undone

8. The car has unexplained dents or other damage

9. You notice changes in personality, hygiene, or the ability to engage in dinner conversation

If you observed any of the above changes, what should you do? The first step is to talk with your parents about their care needs in a way that enables them to identify the problem and come up with potential solutions. If the decline is physical, not cognitive, it is critical that your parents are the ones making the decision to seek help. Above all, let compassion be your guide as you initiate these difficult conversations.

If your Thanksgiving gratitude has become a caregiving concern, Takacs McGinnis Elder Care Law may be able to help. Just give us a call at 615.824.2571 to schedule an appointment to discuss your situation.