Top of the list for most seniors is being able to live a quality life of their choosing. Independence is a primary key factor. But aging and/or illness often steps in the way. The question becomes what assistance is truly needed and when is it needed? The following list helps provide those answers. While one or two items on the list may indicate minimal assistance is necessary, the increasing number of translate to increasing assistance required.

​

At Loving Hands of Nevada we can make it possible for your loved one to maintain the desired quality of life in their own home unless and until there's truly no other alternative. To determine what level of assistance is needed simply fill out our Assessment Form or call us and we will arrange a home visit, ensuring everyone is comfortable and looking forward to implementing a new plan that works better for all.

​

Grooming

• Does s/he need help with bathing, dressing or grooming

• Does s/he need help getting to and from the bathroom?

• Are his/her clothes dirty or rumpled?

• Are dirty clothes put back in the closet without being washed?

• Is routine household cleaning not being done?I

• Has s/he stopped attending church or social activities?

​

Change of Habits

• Does s/he talk less or participate less in conversations?

• Is s/he content to just sit in a chair, not reading or returning phone calls?

• Is s/he lonely or afraid to be alone?

• Is there mail (including unpaid bills) lying around?

• Is s/he having difficulty with or lost interest in eating?

• Is s/he eating poorly or having trouble making nutritious meals?

• Has there been recent weight loss?

• Does s/he have problems sleeping?

• Has s/he become verbally or physically abusive?

​

New Limitations

• Is s/he unable to do grocery shopping and errands alone?

• Is his/her hearing or vision affecting the ability to function?

• Has memory loss made it difficult for him/her to be left alone?

• Are there signs of burnt pans on the stove or in the cupboards?

• Does s/he need assistance getting out of bed or a chair?

• Has a recent injury or surgery temporarily impaired his/her ability to take care of him/herself?

​

Safety Issues

• Are there scorch marks on the pot holders or dish towels?

• Are there burns on his/her skin from cooking (from being unsteady or shaky)?

• If s/he smokes, are there burn marks on the carpet or furniture?

• Are medications not being taken properly? Pills left over or running out to soon?

• Is s/he at risk of falling on the stairs? Have there been recent falls?

• Are there signs of bruises on the arms from bumping into things?

• Are there signs of alcohol or drug abuse (including prescription drugs)?

• Has s/he been diagnosed with any chronic diseases– diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis, etc?

• Has s/he undergone a recent emotional or medical crisis?