Sometimes as we age, we become less able to handle the day-to-day tasks necessary to take proper care of ourselves. The ability to handle activities of daily living (personal care), home care (environmental safety and cleanliness) and orientation and mood are areas that children should assess when deciding if their parents are still safe, healthy and happy in their homes by themselves.

Mini-assessments can be done discreetly and most adult children are able to complete them successfully.

If, based upon either the outcome of a visit or a telephone conversation, you feel there is a problem you should take immediate action.