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Whitesboro, TX - Elder law attorney Richard M. Barron was recently quoted as saying, "Holiday visits frequently prompt families into action as they recognize the need for aging relatives to have more help in the home. These changes happen gradually, and often a visiting relative, who has not seen the person for some time, notices these additional care needs which can help the elder remain safely at home."
Here are some tips for moving forward when one feels an aging relative may need some additional help and guidance:
1. Be observant. Is your loved one losing weight? Do they appear well groomed? Is the home keep neat and orderly? Is there food in the pantry?
2. Talk with your loved one. Ask if help with housework or cooking might
be welcome. Discuss fears of falling or being alone at night. Explore what activities of daily living are becoming more difficult to accomplish.
3. Be sure all appropriate planning documents are in place for your loved one in
case of an emergency situation and know where legal documents are kept.
4. Look into any available benefits which could help your loved one pay for the
help they need. People are often surprised to learn there are at-home benefits available and there are ways to reduce the cost of senior living options like assisted living or nursing home by working with someone skilled and knowledgeable in this area.
"Remember," says Barron, "planning ahead cannot avoid a crisis but can make an urgent situation far more manageable." Knowledge drawn from experts, doctors and an elder law attorney will allow you to better handle the situation as it presents itself.
Barron offers community educational workshops at no charge to the participants. The firm website, www.texaselderlawattorney.com has a current workshop listing and registration information. Individuals may also call 1-800-939-9093 for workshop information or registration.
About The Barron Law Firm
Founded in 1991, The Barron Law Firm serves the special needs of aging clients. Barron practices Elder Law to assist families experiencing the frustration of dealing with the variety of issues facing individuals as they age. The Barron Law Firm handles Medicaid planning, Veterans Benefits and health care coordination and Life Care Planning.
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