The holidays are a busy time of year! With family gatherings and festive events on the agenda, it’s easy to get swept up in the whirlwind of activity. However, amidst the celebrations, remember to take a moment to observe how your aging parents are managing their everyday lives. This time together offers a valuable chance to assess their well-being and determine if they could benefit from some extra help. Here’s what to look for:

1. Home Life:
   
   • Home Upkeep: Is their home environment clean and well-maintained? Are there any signs of neglect, such as unwashed dishes or unfinished home repairs?
   • Meal Preparation: Are they preparing and eating nutritious meals regularly? Is their refrigerator well-stocked, or does it seem like they’re having trouble with grocery shopping or cooking?
   • Personal Care: Pay attention to their personal hygiene habits. Are they bathing and dressing regularly?

2. Daily Routines:
   
   • Mobility: How easily do they move around their home? Are they having difficulty with stairs, getting up and down from chairs, or walking?
   • Medication Management: Are they managing their medications effectively? Are their pills organized in a pill box, or are there signs that they might be missing doses?
   • Cognitive Function: Are they engaged in conversations, remembering appointments, and managing their bills and finances without difficulty? Do they show any signs of confusion or memory problems?

3. Social and Emotional Well-being:
   
   • Social Interaction: Are they actively participating in conversations and family activities? Are they connecting with others and enjoying social interaction, or do they seem more withdrawn or isolated?
   • Mood: Be mindful of any changes in their overall mood. Are they generally cheerful and content, or do they seem more sad, anxious, or easily agitated?
   • Hobbies and Activities: Are they still pursuing hobbies and activities they enjoy?

4. Safety:
   
   • Driving: If they’re still driving, observe their driving habits. Are they confident and alert behind the wheel?
   • Falls: Have they experienced any recent falls or stumbles? Are they steady on their feet, or do they seem unsteady or have difficulty maintaining their balance?
   • Home Hazards: Are there any potential hazards in their home environment, such as loose rugs, clutter, or poor lighting, that could increase their risk of falls or accidents?

Next Steps:

The holidays are a time of joy and togetherness, but they can also highlight subtle signs that our aging parents may need additional support. By being observant and proactive, you can help ensure they receive the care and assistance they need to live fulfilling lives.

Have questions about senior living options or how to best support your aging parents? We’re here to help. Contact us today for more information.

Moving to a senior living community is an exciting new chapter! It’s a chance to simplify your life and enjoy new experiences, free from the worries of home maintenance and daily chores. But getting started on packing for this transition can feel overwhelming. This room-by-room guide will simplify packing and ensure you bring all the essentials to your new home!

Bedroom:

• Wardrobe Essentials: Pack your best clothing including everyday attire, pajamas, and of course, several nicer outfits for special occasions. 
• Sweet Dreams: Pack your favorite bedding (sheets, blankets, pillows, mattress pad) for restful sleep.
• Personal Touches: Bring photos of loved ones, cherished artwork, and decor items that make you feel at home.
• Nightstand Necessities: An alarm clock, a reading lamp, and a nightlight are always helpful.
• Important Documents: Keep important documents like your ID, insurance information, medical records, and financial paperwork safe and easily accessible.

Bathroom:

• Toiletries: Pack up all your toiletries in one box that includes your shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothbrush, medications, and eyeglasses.
  • Pro-Tip: Don’t load this in the truck! Make sure your toiletries box is easily accessible on moving day as you’ll need it right away.
• Essentials: Remember to bring miscellaneous items like a soap dish, toothbrush holder, a non-slip bath mat, and a wastebasket. 
• Comfort Items: You’ll want to make sure to pack bath towels, a comfy bathrobe, and non-slip slippers. 

Living Room:

• Comforts of Home: Bring throw blankets, lamps, and your favorite furniture including a sofa or loveseat, recliner, coffee table, and end tables. 
• Entertainment: Pack your favorite books, magazines, games, or craft supplies. Don’t forget your electronics either including the TV, radio, laptop/tablet, and cell phone.
• Cherished Memories: Family photos, treasured keepsakes, and any decor that brings you joy should find a place in your new living room.

Kitchen:

• Dining In: A few sets of dishes, cutlery, and glassware will be useful for enjoying meals and snacks in your own space.
• Small Appliances: A coffee maker or toaster oven can be handy for preparing simple meals or beverages.
• Pantry Staples: Don’t forget your favorite coffee, tea, and snacks!

Tips for a Smooth Move:

• Start with What You Need: Don’t sort your entire house into piles to keep or not. Instead, walk through your entire house and choose what you want, need, and have room for. Then, everything left goes!
• Downsize with Purpose: Before you start packing, take the time to declutter and donate or discard items you no longer need or use. 
• Label Everything Clearly: Labeling boxes by room will make unpacking much easier.
• Pack a “First Night” Box: Include essentials like toiletries, medications, a few changes of clothes, and a phone charger in a separate box so you have everything you need right away.

Ready to envision your new space? Schedule a tour at Village on the Park Denton! We’d love to show you around and answer any questions you may have about making our community your new home.