WHEN A HOLIDAY VISIT UNWRAPS MORE THAN GIFTS

The holiday season is full of wonderful surprises: unexpected visits from faraway family and friends, secret gifts tucked into sparkling packages, lights twinkling around every bend. But we may also be greeted by another type of surprise—one of concern when we discover the deteriorated condition of an elderly loved one.

Staying in touch only by phone or email with senior loved ones throughout the year can mask issues that are brought to light when physically together over the holidays. As Dr. Richard Schulz, a University of Pittsburgh Medical Center professor of psychiatry explains, “That’s where the discrepancy comes, in between how well we thought they were doing compared to actually seeing them live.”

What’s the best way to address these concerns? If it appears to be a crisis situation, a physician should be contacted immediately. Otherwise, waiting until after the holidays have passed can make the idea of getting help more palatable. Be sure to accompany your loved one to the doctor if at all possible, or, arrange for a professional home care agency, like Responsive Home Care, to provide the accompaniment, so that all concerns are properly relayed and the doctor’s directions are clearly understood.

Often, the holidays are a time when it’s determined that a little extra senior care at home would be beneficial. Contact us for assistance or to learn more, and avoid those unexpected surprises next holiday season!