Is It Time to Ask For Help?

Article submitted by Theresa Phillips of Home Relief Health Services.
For more information, they can be reached at 251-479-6468

As we age or watch our loved ones age, we often find the things that were routine are now more difficult. The activities that we took for granted like driving to the store, preparing a meal, bathing, or trying to keep the house clean can become overwhelming. Accidents or illness can also reduce our ability to maintain quality of life.

From the time we are old enough to know we have choices we struggle to be independent. Since we first said "I want to do it myself," it's been difficult to admit we need help and especially to ask for help. And so it is in our older years; we just don't see how we need help, and even if we did, we'd be reluctant to admit it.

Adult sons and daughters worry about interfering in their parents' lives, and parents worry about loss of independence. Perhaps more so that anything else, this postpones assistance when help can make a difference. If you think this applies to you, ask if any of the following is evident:

• A decline in personal hygiene, housekeeping or nutrition
• Forgetting medications or being confused at times
• Withdrawing from activities, becoming more dependent on family members

The daily tasks of life can become overwhelming; just a little extra help can relieve a burden and help maintain independence. Caring family members can be relieved from worry when mom and dad have help as they age. Children can be children again, and parents can be parents while the burden of care giving is relieved.

Admitting we need help is difficult; getting the right help may be the best road to independence and quality of life.