Summertime ‘fix-up’ time

When you are going to visit an elder friend or parent’s house this summer, remember to ask how they doing and where they may need some help. It may not seem that you are caregiver if you live far away but if you have an aging loved one then you are a caregiver.

Kitchen

It is important to clean the cabinets and floors as well as cleaning out the fridge and, while you’re doing that, also check for what kind of food is in there. You can learn whether or not a nutritional, balanced diet is being eaten and if there is an issue with food safety. For example, ask how long the moldy chicken has been there. Use the old saying “when in doubt, throw it out”. Ask about how they are getting their groceries. Perhaps some help is needed.

Medicine cabinet

Check the medicine cabinet for expiration dates on the prescription bottles and any over-the-counter products. Also, match up the different types of medications to the current list that are being taken to make sure that they are being taken correctly. Make note if it appears that your loved one is being over medicated or if it looks like some of the drugs could have a bad interaction. A mixture of drugs can sometimes cause disorientation, fatigue and poor appetite.

Bathroom

• Check shower or bath tub to make sure there is a non skid surface to avoid slips and falls.
• Grab bars should be installed if it is necessary
• Shower chair or bench
• Transition benches
• Tub rails to assist in getting in out of the tub safely

Bedroom

Flip the mattress and check scatter rugs that may be slipping or frayed. Use double-sided tape or remove rugs.

And as you’re cleaning out the closet and dressers, you can also be checking on the condition of your their clothing. You might notice that there are dirty clothes which could indicate that it’s getting harder for them to do the laundry.

• Are the washer and dryer are in the basement?
• Is it that they do not feel well enough to do laundry?

It may be time to hire someone to come in to help with daily chores.

Stairs

As you’re carrying cleaning supplies up and down the stairs, you can be checking the condition of the staircase.

• Are there handrails and are they sturdy?
• How are the treads?
• Are they covered with carpeting that is old and slippery?
• How well-lit is the staircase, both at the top and the bottom?

For more information on falls go to:http://www.cdc.gov/HomeandRecreationalSafety/Falls/adultfalls.html