Caregiving:
Assessing the Situation

Your mom is getting older and lives alone. You worry that she may fall or become ill with no one around to help. Or your father has always prided himself on his appearance, but lately his clothes are not as clean as they once were and his grooming is poor.

As parents grow older, adult children face changes they may not know how to address. You may have concerns about your parents' safety and well-being and wonder how you can respect your parents' choices about independence and safety. This fact sheet will help you sort out what is happening and take stock of your family's situation.

What You Should Know about an Assessment
An assessment is a comprehensive review of a person's mental, physical, environmental, social, and financial condition. It helps establish his or her ability to remain safely independent.

A successful assessment will result in a comprehensive plan for meeting needs and addressing problems. The findings may help you conclude that change is needed for your parents' safety and well-being, such as making new housing arrangements or getting in-home assistance. Or an assessment could lead to solving problems and helping a parent remain independent longer. A good plan can result in fewer accidents, less illness, a longer life, more quality of life, and greater independence. It is essential that your parents participate fully in the discussion and decision-making about options.

It is possible for you to do an assessment on your own, but professional services are available. They offer experience in working through problems.

Factors To Assess
What factors should you assess? Although there may be slight variations, a thorough assessment should include a review of:

Physical Health	Appearance and Hygiene
Behaviors	Finances, insurance
Medications	coverage, trusts and wills
Daily Living Activities	Interests/Lifestyles
Support System