Can my elderly parent live alone safely?
Your parent may be able to live alone safely if they can handle daily tasks or have help with them. The key is whether they can cook, bathe, take medicines and get help in an emergency.
Questions to ask on your next visit
- Can your parent use the stove safely and keep food in the house?
- Are they bathing and dressing for the weather?
- Do they have their medicines and take them on time?
- Have you noticed changes in mood, memory or personality?
- Could they call for help after a fall?
If most answers are yes, small supports may be enough. If several are no, it may be time to add more help. Depression in older adults is sometimes mistaken for normal aging, so mention mood changes to the doctor. Explore ways to keep the home safe or learn about monitoring options for a parent who lives alone.
Sources
This answer is general information, not medical, legal or financial advice. Rules can vary by state.
ASK CASA
Have a question about your parent?
Tell us what you are noticing. A member of the CASA team will reply by phone or email with guidance that fits your family.
KEEP EXPLORING
Keep going with the questions that come next
You don't have to figure this out alone
Ask questions and learn from other families in the CASA community.