Thanksgiving Home Care Checklist: How to Assess If Your Aging Loved One Needs Extra Help

As Thanksgiving approaches, many families will come together to celebrate, share a meal, and spend quality time with loved ones. For those with aging parents or relatives, this holiday offers a valuable opportunity to check in on their well-being. At BrightStar Care of Arlington/Alexandria, we understand that seniors’ needs can change over time, and sometimes it can be difficult to know when they might need additional support at home. Here’s a helpful checklist to guide your visit and help determine if your loved one could benefit from home care services this holiday season.

1. Mobility and Physical Safety

• Are they able to move around safely?
  Take note of any changes in their mobility, such as difficulty walking, unsteady movements, or reliance on mobility aids like canes or walkers. If they’re having trouble maintaining balance, this may signal the need for assistance with mobility.
   
• Are there fall risks in their home?
  Check the house for potential fall hazards like loose rugs, cluttered hallways, or poor lighting. Falls are a significant risk for seniors, and making their home safer is a priority. If you notice any potential hazards, additional home care services can help minimize these risks.
   

2. Personal Hygiene and Daily Care

• Are they keeping up with personal hygiene?
  Pay attention to how well your loved one is managing basic hygiene, including bathing, grooming, and dressing. If they appear disheveled or are struggling to maintain their hygiene, it might indicate they need help with daily self-care tasks.
   
• Are they able to handle dressing and grooming independently?
  If you notice they are having difficulty getting dressed or maintaining personal care routines, it could be time to consider a caregiver who can offer assistance with these essential tasks.
   

3. Nutrition and Meal Preparation

• Are they eating well-balanced meals?
  Inspect their kitchen and pantry for expired or spoiled food. If you notice a lack of fresh produce or difficulty preparing meals, it may indicate that they need help with meal planning or cooking. Ensuring that your loved one is eating a nutritious diet is essential for their health.
   
• Are they staying hydrated?
  Seniors are more susceptible to dehydration, especially in colder months. Keep an eye on their fluid intake. If you notice they’re not drinking enough water or avoiding liquids, a caregiver can help with hydration reminders and ensure they’re consuming enough fluids.
   

4. Cognitive and Emotional Health

• Are they mentally alert?
  Watch for signs of confusion, forgetfulness, or difficulty recalling information. If your loved one is showing signs of cognitive decline or seems unusually forgetful, they may benefit from extra assistance to ensure their safety and well-being.
   
• Are they socially engaged or isolated?
  Loneliness and depression can be common during the holiday season, especially for seniors who live alone. Pay attention to how they’re feeling emotionally. If they seem withdrawn or disconnected, social interaction from a caregiver could provide important emotional support.
   

5. Medical Care and Medication Management

• Are they managing their medications properly?
  Review their medications and ensure they’re taking them as prescribed. If pills are disorganized or there are missed doses, it could indicate that medication management assistance would be helpful. A caregiver can help with organizing medications and providing timely reminders.
   
• Are they keeping up with medical appointments?
  Ensure they are attending necessary doctor visits and following through with recommended care plans. If they’ve missed appointments or seem unsure of their healthcare needs, a caregiver can assist with transportation and scheduling medical visits.
   

6. Home Safety and Comfort

• Is the home environment safe and comfortable?
  Check their living space for comfort and safety. Make sure the heating system is functioning well, especially as temperatures drop. Look for any signs of discomfort in the home, such as drafts or inadequate lighting. A caregiver can assist with maintaining a cozy and secure living environment.
   
• Do they have easy access to emergency contacts?
  Ensure emergency numbers and essential information are easily accessible in case of an urgent situation. If they’re having difficulty accessing or organizing important contacts and documents, a caregiver can help with creating an emergency plan and keeping everything in order.
   

Thanksgiving is an excellent time to check in on your aging loved ones, not only for emotional support but also to assess their physical, emotional, and mental health. By taking note of any changes or challenges they may be facing, you can better determine if they need extra help at home. At BrightStar Care of Arlington/Alexandria, we specialize in providing compassionate, professional home care that ensures your loved one’s safety, well-being, and comfort.

If you notice any concerns during your visit this Thanksgiving or feel that your loved one could benefit from additional support, don’t hesitate to reach out to BrightStar Care of Arlington/Alexandria. Contact us today for a consultation and ensure your loved one gets the care they need this holiday season and beyond.