“When you know, you know” can be said for a lot of things – most of which are positive things. Falling in love, finding your first home – but what happens when you get that gut feeling that tells you mom or dad may not be able to live on their own anymore?

It can be a difficult realization. The strongest people you know, the ones who raised you – are getting older, and having a hard time with basic daily tasks and responsibilities. 

MAS Home Care has compiled a few signs to keep an eye out for.

1. The cleanliness in the house isn’t what it used to be. Dirty dishes are piling up in the sink, spoiled food stays in the fridge far longer than it should. You know this isn’t how mom or dad used to keep their home.

2. Money mismanagement. Your parents used to keep an impeccable checkbook – but now they’re late on paying bills or bouncing checks. 

3. Poor hygiene. Maybe you notice the laundry hasn’t been done in a long time, or mom is wearing a stained and wrinkled shirt that she was wearing last time you visited.

4. Weight loss. Grocery shopping and cooking on a regular basis have become too much trouble or too exhausting, and maybe mom and dad aren’t eating the way they used to. 

5. Burned pots and pans. This could be a sign that mom or dad left the pan on the burner for too long, which is extremely dangerous. Mildew and water stains under the sink can be a sign that they’ve left the water running on occasion. 

6. Forgetfulness. The bills are piling up. The mail is overflowing from the mailbox, and a weeks worth of newspapers are scattered on the porch. Maybe they’ve missed a few appointments. Basic daily tasks have become too much to handle.

7. Exhibiting symptoms of depression or odd behavior. Mom or dad aren’t in the mood to attend family functions anymore. They stay inside all day, and just aren’t their cheery happy selves like they used to be. 

If you’ve noticed any of these signs, now is the time to take action. Don’t wait until a crisis occurs. Call MAS Home Care today to set up a free in-home assessment. We provide home care in Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts. We will listen to your concerns and work with you to make sure your parent is safe and happy in their home.