It’s important to have regular checkups with a doctor to review existing health conditions and screen for new concerns. Keep a written list of all diagnoses, medications, and recent changes in health. This helps family members and healthcare providers stay on the same page.

Medication mix-ups are common as we age, which can lead to medical emergencies and health decline. Using a pillbox, medication list, or pharmacy delivery service can help. In some cases, home health nurses or caregivers may need to assist with medication management.

Many older adults wish to remain at home, but safety concerns, on-going health needs, impaired cognitive abilities, and limited available support should guide this decision. If living at home is no longer safe, other housing options may be considered.

• Independent Living: For seniors who are mostly self-sufficient, but enjoy community and require some support with meal preparation, cleaning, laundry, and transportation.
• Assisted Living: For those who need help with daily tasks – like meal preparation, bathing, dressing, medication management, some mobility, transferring/walking, laundry, housekeeping, and transportation, etc.
• Memory Care: For individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia who need specialized supervision, care, and engagement.
• Skilled Nursing Facility (Nursing Home): For those with complex medical needs requiring 24-hour assistance with personal care, mobility, and medical management/nursing.
• Living with Family: A good option – if family can provide care and the home can be made safe.

Small changes like grab bars in the bathroom, better lighting, and removing loose rugs can prevent falls. Larger changes may include ramps, stair lifts, or walk-in showers. There are specialists who assess the safety and functionality of the home and make recommendations. Once recommendations are received, there are experienced and licensed entities who make the necessary changes to the home.

Advance directives are legal documents that explain what medical treatments he/she wants or does not want if he/she cannot speak for him/herself. If you live in Tennessee, you will want to assure your Aging Loved One has completed the POST form on the State of Tennessee website. Post_Form.pdf

Long-term care can be costly. Reviewing finances with a financial advisor can help determine options like long-term care insurance, savings, or government programs (like Medicaid), along with the guidance and expertise of an Elder Law attorney.

Encourage phone calls, video chats, visits, and participation in senior centers or community programs. Social activities support emotional health, whether structured in a familiar environment or consistent interactions with others the Aging Loved One enjoys.

These feelings are common as people age. Talking openly and seeking help from a doctor, counselor, or support group can make a big difference. There are many changes which occur as one ages, which is best to discuss with someone the Aging Loved One feels safe and connected to.

Caregiving can be demanding. Sharing responsibilities among family members, using respite care (in a community or in the home), or hiring professional caregivers can help protect both the caregiver and the Aging Loved One. There are different ways to ensure the senior and the caregiver are provided their own time apart from each other to “reset.”

Local agencies, caregiver support groups, faith communities, and national organizations (like the Alzheimer’s Association) offer guidance, training, and respite services. There are a significant number of entities which offer education, support (physical and virtual), and guidance to seniors and their caregivers to promote a blend of care, understanding, and function – both from the county and private pay agencies.

A balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains helps maintain health. Gentle activities like walking, stretching, or chair exercises improve strength and balance. There are local senior centers, private classes, diagnosis driven classes, and local dieticians who provide insight, knowledge, education, and engagement. 

Talk with a doctor before making big changes. In general, staying hydrated, eating smaller balanced meals, and doing safe, regular activity are encouraged. Obtain clearance from the physician prior to engaging in any exercise routine. Ask the physician for local recommended exercise programs.

Forgetfulness can be part of normal aging, but repeated confusion, difficulty performing daily tasks, or personality changes may signal dementia. A doctor should evaluate these concerns. 

Staying mentally active (puzzles, reading, hobbies), keeping socially connected, exercising, and managing health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure can support brain health.

It’s important to discuss wishes for medical care, comfort, and spiritual needs early, while he/she can still make decisions. If there is no plan, the emergency dictates the plan. Ensure your Aging Loved One has provided specific information on his/her wishes, which provide step by step guidance on how he/she sees and wishes his/her end of life to be.

Advance directives are legal documents that explain what medical treatments he/she wants or does not want if he/she cannot speak for him/herself. If you live in Tennessee, you will want to assure your Aging Loved One has completed the POST form on the State of Tennessee website.

Warning signs may include getting lost, accidents & “dings” to the vehicle, or slowed reaction times. Alternatives include senior transportation services, ridesharing, or help from family and friends. There are local agencies which perform driving assessments if you are concerned about the safety of your Aging Loved One’s driving ability. Also, his/her physician can be a strong advocate and provide guidance when it is appropriate that the senior stops driving.

Encourage walking, physical therapy, keeping active & purposeful, and performing safe exercises. Accessible transportation services and mobility aids (like walkers) also support independence. There are home physical, occupational, and speech therapy services, and supportive non-medical home health services, which can be utilized to maintain mobility, safety, and independence.

Fall-proofing the home (reducing falls and minimizing injuries) is key—remove clutter, install good lighting- including at night, remove throw rugs – except for a very low pile throw rug at the exit of the shower/bath, keep frequently used items with in easy reach, assure pets are able to be safely cared for and not increasing a fall risk, add appropriately secured handrails, create ease and safety with home cleaning and laundry duties, and limit the need to use stairs while carrying items. Consider medical alert systems for emergencies.

Yes. For example, someone with poor vision may need extra lighting, while someone with memory issues may need stove safety devices. Connecting with local agencies who provide educational interventions are beneficial: American Cancer Society, ALS Association, National MS Society, Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s, Brain Tumor Society, National Alliance on Mental Illness, American Diabetes Association, American Heart Association, and Arthritis Foundation to name a few. Safety plans should be tailored to an individual’s needs.