by Marlo Sollitto, Editor
To determine if an elderly person can safely continue living at home, take a good look at the present housing situation, financial resources, health status and medical needs. Braun says some topics of the assessment should include:
* Medication
Are medications expired? Are they spread out in different rooms, with no apparent structure or routine?
* Meal preparation
Can they cook for themselves? Are they able to safely operate appliances? Do they remember to turn appliances off when finished cooking?
* Safety
Is the home equipped with grab bars, emergency response systems and other tools to ensure safety? Do they have a plan in place to contact help in case of an emergency?
* Personal hygiene
Can they bathe themselves, groom adequately and launder clothes?
* Transportation
Are they driving? Should they be driving? Do they have alternate means of transportation?
* Socialization
Are they isolated from others most of the time? Do they have friends? Are they going to church? Are they depressed? Are there signs of alcohol abuse?
* Home management
Are they paying their bills on time? Are there stacks of papers and unpaid bills laying around? Is the house in general disarray? Is the house relatively clean?
Print an Assessment Checklist
Having been involved in many of these assessments, Braun says, “It’s a delicate situation – it’s a role reversal between adult child and parent, and it typically is not welcomed by the elderly person.”
Verlia Caldwell, Pres.
www.icareforyouhomecare.com
(800) 383-0520
