Health Signs to Watch For

If you have a parent or an older friend or family member you will want to watch for certain signs. The signs could indicate an underlying medical problem or other serious illness. If you notice any of the following signs report it to their physician immediately. It could help save their life.

If you notice that their memory is starting to slip you may want to keep an eye on it. Be on the lookout for early signs of Alzheimer’s disease. This could include forgetting where they are, forgetting who the people surrounding them are, such as friends and family members. Forgetting how to dress themselves or use the bathroom or any other daily routines. These signs could be an indication of the beginning stages of Alzheimer’s.

Another factor you will want to keep an eye on is their weight. If they seem to have lost a tremendous amount of weight in a short amount of time then notify the doctor. This could indicate cancer, depression, or malnutrition. As humans tend to get older their appetite can diminish, but it should not diminish to the point of not eating.

Eyesight is another factor you will want to keep close tabs on. Poor eyesight that keeps getting worse can mean blindness or that they may need eye surgery in the future. Poor eyesight is a hazard on the road as well. You will want to make sure their vision is sufficient that they can still drive themselves around if needed. Alternate transportation can be made if they are deemed unworthy of driving.

The last thing you will want to be on the lookout for is how their balance is. If you see they stumble and fall a lot, seek medical attention. It could be due to old age and they might need a walker or a cane. It could also be an indication of a brain disorder. It is hazardous to the parent and can cause broken hips, arms, wrists and other injuries if left untreated.

Growing older does not have to be a bad experience. If done with grace and care, then getting older can be seen as a benefit for your parent(s) and you.