As we age, we can expect to see changes in our mental and physical abilities – however, these changes and the degree to which they affect the lives of our loved ones can be hard to detect. Here are some warning signs that your elderly family member may need more support:

1. Relationship changes: Cutting off important relationships with friends and family can be a sign your loved one is struggling. Keep in touch with good friends and chat about events in their lives to ensure they are maintaining a healthy, active social life.
2. Neglecting the home: If your parents always took pride in their home and its cleanliness, signs of neglect can indicate they are no longer coping with the workload. This could be temporary due to a recent illness, for example, but if it persists there is good reason for concern.
3. Financial confusion: Bills that haven’t been paid, losing money, paying bills multiple times, dramatically increased spending and other unusual financial issues are a reason for concern. This may indicate that forgetfulness is becoming a more frequent problem and it leaves your loved one vulnerable to financial elder abuse and the many fraud schemes that target the elderly.
4. Increased memory loss: While a certain amount of short-term memory loss is to be expected as we age, a dramatic increase in incidents is important to watch out for. This could include accidental overdosing on medication, forgetting regular appointments, burning meals and the bottoms of pots by forgetting them on the stove and forgetting to lock windows and doors.
5. Accidents: Falls in the home, scrapes on the car, fender benders and loss of balance are all signs your loved one needs additional support at home. Moving to a single level, easily navigable home and having access to safe transport services will help ensure their safety and your peace of mind.

Elder law attorneys can assist with Medicaid, Medicare and more 

At Sedita, Campisano & Campisano, LLC, we have over 30 years of experience in New Jersey elder law and can assist you and your loved one with:

• Medicaid planning.
• Accessing Medicaid and Medicare benefits.
• Accessing state and federal veteran’s benefits
• Drawing up estate planning documents, including a financial Power of Attorney, a healthcare proxy and medical directives.
• Drawing up a Last Will and Testament.
• Establishing a NJ legal guardianship.

With our expertise and compassion, we can help your loved one grow older with dignity, in comfort and with proper peace of mind. For a free consultation, please contact us today.