Answer: January
Question: In what month are more long-term care claims submitted to insurance companies?
Here's why: Spending time with aging parents and other loved ones at holiday celebrations could mean noticing certain changes.
These could indicate that there are impending problems.
Older adults have a high risk of accidents, and especially falls. Almost half of these accidents occur at home.
For an older adult, even a minor accident can result in a serious disability, a need for extended care or even death.
The holidays offer a precious opportunity to connect with aging loved ones. And they also provide a unique moment to compassionately assess their health and well-being.
As family members, we are often the first to notice subtle changes that might indicate emerging care needs.
This checklist is designed to help you approach these observations with sensitivity, love, and proactive care, ensuring that your vulnerable family members remain safe, supported, and able to maintain their independence for as long as possible.
1. Check for loose or uneven flooring, damaged thresholds, or broken steps that could cause tripping.
2. Bare floors (wood, tile or concrete) are not polished or slippery.
3. Remove or secure scatter rugs, especially in high-traffic areas and bathrooms.
4. Assess lighting conditions, ensuring all areas are well-lit and switches are easily accessible.
5. Look for potential hazards like electrical cords, clutter or furniture blocking walkways.
6. Evaluate bathroom safety, such as whether the bathroom has grab bars near the toilet and in the shower, non-slip mats, and a shower chair.
1. Verify handrails are secure on staircases and hallways.
2. Check that frequently used items are within easy reach, avoiding the need for stretching or climbing.
3. Ensure smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are functional.
4. Look for signs of home maintenance issues like water damage, mold, or needed repairs.
5. Assess kitchen safety: stove functionality, safe storage of cooking tools and clear pathways.
1. Concrete or brick steps are in good repair (no chips, cracks or uneven surfaces).
2. Walkways and pathways are free of clutter and obstacles.
3. Walkway areas are cleared of snow, leaves and puddles.
1. Observe medication management.
2. Check if medications are organized and not expired.
3. Look for signs of missed doses or confusion about prescriptions.
4. Assess personal hygiene and home cleanliness.
5. Note any unexplained bruises or injuries that might indicate falls.
6. Check for signs of weight loss or changes in eating habits.
7. Evaluate mail and bill management for signs of confusion or potential financial exploitation.
1. Repeated stories or questions.
2. Difficulty following conversations.
3. Forgetting recent events or conversations.
4. Misplacing items frequently.
5. Challenges with familiar tasks like cooking or managing finances.
6. Changes in personality or mood.
7. Getting lost in familiar places.
8. Difficulty managing medications or medical appointments.
1. Unexpected weight loss or gain.
2. Reluctance to discuss health issues.
3. Noticeable changes in mobility.
4. Hesitation to move around or participate in activities.
5. Signs of depression or social withdrawal.
6. Unexplained bruises or signs of potential falls.
1. Ensure easy access to communication devices.
2. Set up emergency contact systems.
3. Consider medical alert devices.
4. Check phone and communication capabilities.
5. Are there phones in all rooms where time is spent, or does the parent carry a cell phone?
6. Is a Personal Emergency Response device, or PERS device, needed? (This is a small device worn on the wrist or neck that enables the wearer to signal for help through a 24-hour communication system.)
1. Check the refrigerator for expired food.
2. Assess ability to prepare meals.
3. Look for signs of proper nutrition.
4. Evaluate kitchen appliance usage.
1. Discuss observations with other family members.
2. Consult with the parent's health care provider.
3. Consider professional home safety assessment.
4. Explore supportive living options if significant concerns exist.
1. Approach conversations with empathy and respect.
2. Involve the parent in decision-making.
3. Maintain their sense of independence and dignity.
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