How to Inspect an Elderly Living Situation

An elderly person's living situation can deteriorate rapidly, but it can also happen slowly and in an almost imperceptible way. A relative or friend may feel uneasy, and decide to inspect the person's home. This is difficult and sensitive.



The senior may have issues of pride and independence, and may view any inspection of her home as an intrusion. It may potentially cause real upset, so should be handled with sensitivity. More frequently, the relative or visitor may have the sort of arrangement where it is the norm to drop in regularly. This gives the opportunity to see the older person's living condition at close proximity.

Instructions

• 1

  Observe the amount of food in the kitchen and also its nature. It may be that the person is

  living on convenience food because she is nervous about cooking, or even unable to prepare the food or stand by the stove. Lack of food in the house may also denote confusion or depression. Notice also if the cooker and saucepans have been used, and whether they have been washed up. It is very important that an elderly person be drinking enough fluids.

• 2

  Notice if the home is warm and comfortable. Many older people attempt to economize by cutting back on heating. This can be dangerous, as elderly people often do not move about enough to keep warm, and hypothermia can soon become a life-threatening issue.

• 3

  Check that the elderly person's house is reasonably clean. It is particularly significant if there is a change of habits. If a senior who is normally clean and careful of hygiene, suddenly starts living in squalor it may be that he is developing Alzheimer's disease or some other acute condition. You should also notice if the person is keeping himself and his clothing clean.