To give some context. I'm meeting with my Mom's new doctor next week to go over her care plan. I want to make sure I don't miss anything important. She's still pretty independent but has some balance issues and mild memory problems. What are the key things I should make sure to address? I'm worried I'll forget something crucial in the appointment.
NP are usually good about discussing what to be on the lookout for. Here are a few things I have dealt with. Environmental: throw rugs can be a hazard, add grab bars in the shower, shower chairs, removing knobs on the stove, door locks to prevent wandering, Life Alert necklaces, and driving prevention. Activities: puzzles, chair yoga, cards, word search(lots of Demential mind stimulating activities on Amazon for suggestions). Walking if able, household assistance-folding towels, washing dishes, dusting, my mom loves to iron and do dishes đł. My mom goes twice a week to a Respite Program called âA Joyful Placeâ. Four hours-Tuesday and Thursdays with lunch and a structured activity program. Music therapy is amazing-they remember the words to songs. All participants must be able to toilet independently. There are over 50 locations-search for one in your area. It gives her social time and a break from her bossy daughter⊠Health-signs of UTI, fluid intake to prevent UTI, (any change in the norm could be a sign of UTI-excess sleeping, irritability, etc. Also monitor hygiene, bathing and foot care. Assess feet every week or so. My mom would tell me she does her nails regularly, but her mind is in 1984-when she in fact did take care of it. Verify anything they tell you they took care of. I check my momâs bath towel (for dampness) to verify after running her bath and telling her that her âspa awaitsâ. Wet toothbrush? Meds: buy a medication system to help you organize everything for a month at a time. Helps you stay on top of Rx needing refills. Know that if behaviors change, there are meds that can help. Amazon has multiple options. Twice a day, 3x a day and more.