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As we move through life at ages 50, 60, 70 and beyond, we notice subtle changes in our abilities. The changes may seem small at first glance. However, subtle changes quickly become difficult to reverse if ignored.
We become less active; what used to be an easy trip up a flight of steps now leaves us breathless with aching knees. Trimming our toenails and putting on shoes and socks is a struggle. The organizational skills and sharp memory we once had have gone by the wayside. Sometimes we can't remember what we were getting ready to do. We begin receiving past due notices on bills. The one pill we previously took for arthritis has now turned into ten pills a day for various ailments and we have three doctors we see on a regular basis.
Getting up out of a chair takes more effort. Our balance when we walk isn't what it used to be; we've had some near falls. In our younger days we bathed and dressed each morning to get ready for the day. Now we rarely bathe and think nothing of wearing the same clothes day after day. Friend and family members have expressed concern. Who are they to tell us what to do or how we should live our lives?
If any of this sounds familiar it may be time to evaluate your day to day activities. The top ten reasons leading to institutionalized care include: medication non-compliance, cognitive impairment, physical decline, depression, incontinence, lack of personal care, weight loss, sight or hearing loss, chronic health conditions and inability to maintain a home. These often creep up slowly and unexpectedly until we wake up one day, look in the mirror and ask ourselves "what happened"? Don't wait until this day comes. Perform a realistic evaluation of your abilities or consult your physician for recommendations. It may be time to seek information and support.
Copyright 2011 Pamela D. Wilson, All Rights Reserved.
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