Ask about all the normally scheduled errands that come up every week, and if they find it easy to meet them. Are they still able to get groceries as often as they would like, meet up with friends and old colleagues, attend church events and services, or get to all their doctor’s visits?

Are there new challenges that are preventing them from meeting all their scheduled events? Discuss with them the resources that they might want to implement to answer any of these challenges and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Resources like one-to-one time with friends or counselors, medication adjustments with their doctors, occupational or physical therapy, or bringing in outside care can help your loved one meet the activities of daily living.

If they have hobbies, find out if they are still enjoying them. If they show a lack of interest in the things that have always been central to what they enjoy, ask what is behind the apathy. It could be a new physical problem. If they are feeling increased levels of pain, a new physical limitation, or fatigue from a lingering illness, it might be limiting them from doing things they would normally enjoy.

There may also be a change in their mental or emotional state getting in the way of their quality of life, day-to-day. Depression, forgetfulness, bouts of confusion or anxiety, can all limit what was once enjoyable. Seeking the help of a medical professional is recommended.

Whatever they are facing as they age, make sure that they are eating healthy, exercising, and maintaining their social connections, as this will help them to be at their best and prevent more aggressive decline as they age in place. If it is determined that outside assistance is needed, Caring Friends is just a phone call away!