Life's transitions include realizing the parents who once cared for you now need care themselves. With proper knowledge and early intervention, you can ensure your elderly loved ones receive the care they need.
"It's always hard to sit across from the people who took care of you from infancy and say they now need some help," says Sandra Miller, owner of Trusted Life Choices, "but if you can intervene, the sooner you can intervene, the more likely you can help that parent to stay in their home—which is ultimately what they want to do."
Trusted Life Choices, previously known as Key Home Care, has operated for over a decade. With Medicaid waiver contracts, private pay, and long-term care insurance options, they provide individualized care for seniors and people with disabilities.
Miller, a social worker by trade, entered the business after discovering her passion for helping the senior community. "I wanted to offer services so people can remain living in their homes as long as possible," she says.
The company provides various services including meal preparation, light housekeeping, medication reminders, errands, and personal care. Services range from 24/7 in-home care to weekly visits.
Miller identifies several key indicators that show loved ones may need assistance:
-
Unexplained weight loss or gain due to not fixing meals or prolonged inactivity
-
Frequent falls or injuries
-
Missing medication
-
Signs of cognitive decline
-
Difficulty managing finances
-
Behavior changes, such as becoming untidy or missing mail
-
Repeated use of the same outfit without laundering
-
Troubles with basic self-care, such as bathing
"It's hard, especially if you're seeing your parents every day, because these things can happen slowly," Miller says. She notes many won't admit to falling until bruising becomes visible.
For those beginning this conversation about care, Miller recommends an informal introduction where potential clients can meet her, ask questions, and ease into the process. She emphasizes having these discussions early.
"There are a lot of choices out there for agencies like mine. If you know your mom and dad need care, and you have that conversation, now you have time to interview several agencies."
This proactive approach allows families to find the best fit and build trust, enabling family members to focus on being family while the agency provides care.
trustedlifechoicesllc.com | 402.982.9254