










|
If you are concerned about your
parents or elderly relatives, there is likely a valid reason for your concern. These early
warning signs should alert you to possible problems, and identifying a problem is the
first step to solving it.
FREQUENT
PHONE CALLS:
PHYSICAL
OBSERVATIONS:
-
Is
physically fragile or unsteady on feet
-
Has fallen
more than once, with or without injury
-
Has lost
or gained a significant amount of weight
-
Doesn't
take medications as prescribed
-
Looks or
complains of always feeling fatigued
-
Has dirty
clothes, hair or bedding
-
Has
accumulated paper, garbage or other items in home
-
Has body
odors or odors in home
-
Has
difficulty seeing or hearing well enough to communicate
-
Has
unexplained injuries or bruises
-
Has bills
or other paperwork accumulating around house
-
Has many
beer cans or liquor bottles in garbage
-
Home has
not been adequately maintained
PSYCHOSOCIAL
OBSERVATIONS:
Is confused or forgetful
Is anxious or depressed
Is unable to clearly explain things or describe needs
Has had a change in mood or personality
Is increasingly isolated and refuses to go out
Refuses to go to the doctor or dentist
Is newly suspicious of previously trusted relatives
Has experienced deterioration of relationships with others
SUPPORT
SYSTEMS:
Has
recently experienced the death of a spouse, child, partner or pet
Has
recently lost the right or ability to drive
Significant
others have moved away
- Is not involved with friends, neighbors or community
|

"There is an immense value to early referrals. The earlier
clients are seen, the more effective Matrix can be in maintaining them in the least
restrictive environment. Matrix can prevent accidents and illness that, once they occur,
lead clients in a downward spiral of dependence rather than independence."
Mary Ferris Jensen, Attorney, former Trust Officer,
Midway National Bank,
St. Paul, MN
 |