As the holiday season approaches, it’s a time for family, celebration, and connection. It’s also the perfect opportunity for a “holiday reality check”—a moment to assess how your aging loved ones are truly doing. For many, returning home for the holidays can reveal surprising changes in their loved ones’ health and well-being.
In 2024, this reality check remains as important as ever. Adult children who visit less frequently may notice signs of decline that were not evident during phone calls or video chats. Aging parents may downplay their struggles to avoid worrying their family, or they may not fully recognize their own needs. A holiday visit can provide critical insights into their physical and cognitive health, allowing you to address potential issues before they become crises.
Warning Signs to Watch For:
During your visit, be observant for the following signs that your loved one may need extra support:
Cognitive Impairment: Are they experiencing increased forgetfulness or confusion? These could indicate cognitive decline or the progression of conditions like dementia.
Home Condition: Is their home showing signs of neglect? Look for disorganization, cleanliness issues, or damage that might suggest they’re struggling with household tasks.
Food and Nutrition: Check the refrigerator for spoiled or outdated food. A lack of fresh, healthy food may indicate difficulty shopping or preparing meals.
Physical Health: Are there noticeable bruises or signs of decreased mobility? Weakness, balance issues, or a loss of stamina may be cause for concern.
Behavioral Changes: Do they seem more stressed, agitated, or withdrawn? Increased sedentary behavior, such as spending most of their time in a favorite chair, can also be a warning sign.
Appetite and Medication: Has their appetite diminished? Are they managing their medications properly? Mistakes with medications can have serious consequences.
Evening Confusion: Do they seem more disoriented or confused at night? This could be a sign of sundowning, often associated with dementia.
Taking the Next Steps
If you notice signs of decline, the first step is to determine what kind of help your loved one might need. Support can range from small adjustments, like hiring a home helper for errands and chores, to more comprehensive care for those with serious illnesses.
At UpliftedCare, we specialize in providing an “extra layer of support” for families navigating the challenges of serious illness. Our team of nurses, aides, and caregivers work closely with families to create personalized care plans that meet your loved one’s unique needs.
How UpliftedCare Can Help
UpliftedCare offers a range of services to support aging loved ones and their families, including:
- Expert In-Home Care: Nurses provide medical care, coordinate medications, and arrange for necessary medical equipment.
- Personal Assistance: Nurses’ aides help with bathing, grooming, light meal preparation, and overall comfort.
- Symptom Management: Our team collaborates with doctors to manage symptoms, enhance safety, and improve quality of life.
- Daily Check-Ins: We offer regular phone calls to monitor your loved one’s condition between visits, ensuring timely responses to any concerns.
Our goal is to help your loved one maintain their independence, stay safe, and enjoy the best possible quality of life at home.
The Gift of Peace of Mind
This holiday season, take the time to observe and assess how your loved ones are doing. A simple reality check can lead to meaningful changes that enhance their well-being and your peace of mind. Whether it’s a small adjustment or comprehensive care, UpliftedCare is here to help you navigate the journey with compassion and expertise.
Learn more about how we can support your family and provide the extra care your loved one deserves. Let’s make 2024 a year of connection, care, and comfort for those who matter most.
Hospice Care
When that time comes, hospice is there every step of the way with the patient and family as they focus on comfort at the end of life.
Palliative Care
Palliative care is a chance for people dealing with life-limiting illness to have relief from the symptoms, pain and stress of dealing with the illness and to have an extra layer of support.
Care Where You Are
Most patients receive hospice care in a private home. Yet did you know that UpliftedCare also provides care to those living in a nursing home, hospital or assisted living?
Complementary Therapies
Support services such as massage, respiratory therapy, music, and pet therapy can play a significant role in enhancing quality of life for those who are ill. From easing discomfort to evoking fond memories, these therapies can heal the body and lift the spirit.
Call 815.939.4141
More Time, More Memories: Our Care Helps Families Stay Together Longer.
Each year, over 100 of our patients benefit from early hospice care, extending their time with family and loved ones by six months or more.
AREAS WE SERVE
UpliftedCare serves six counties:
Ford | Iroquois | Kankakee | Livingston | Grundy | Will
DetailsMAKE A REFERRAL
If you are living with a serious illness or caring for someone that is, we’re here for you, wherever you are, whenever you need us.
Submit Referral