17 Comments
User's avatar
Janice Walton's avatar

Self-neglect can be an issue for caregivers, older adults, and family members—something you might not have thought about previously.

Rebecca Holden's avatar

Gosh, thank you for these important words, Janice. Great post.

Sharron Bassano's avatar

These specific warning signs spelled out are disturbing to me. I see myself heading down a couple of those paths and have to stay very aware. As an example, I have to write on my calendar CHANGE THE SHEETS on a specific day. Otherwise I never remember. A couple of days last week I didn't even make the bed. The same for vacuuming. I lose track of how long it has been if I don't "schedule" it. It is shocking to me as I have been mega-fastidious about my home my entire life.

Janice Walton's avatar

Hi Sharron, I think part of it is the aging process - and that is the point - staying aware. There is also so much going on these days, so many changes, things to learn just to keep up, and adjustments required.

nancy knox-bierman's avatar

it is an easy trap to fall into when one lives alone.

Sharron Bassano's avatar

You are exactly right, Nancy. A little voice in my head says,"Who will know or care if I don't wash my windows? And they say if you don't dust for four years, it doesn't get any worse. Just saying... ha ha ha

Victoria's avatar

Just to make everyone feel a bit better...it happens for me and Mum and we're together! It tends to happen when days and weeks merge together especially when we have several medical appointments. We chose one thing.....or perhaps I did... I do the sheets on Saturday in Mum's room, play some music and sing-a-long.

Don't ask me about the kitchen floor or windows (inside) we got a window cleaner to do outside - fancy poles with water...so Mum can see the flowers.

Picking 1 thing as a routine, and fun can go far ;-)

Janice Walton's avatar

Very helpful - especially the fun part.

Robyn Everingham's avatar

Sharron, I don't consider myself old but I have a daily habits checklist that I tick off. And I have recurring tasks in my software app. Things like change the smoke detector batteries. I also line annual medical checks with my birthday.

Linda's avatar

Making time for a walk if possible. Having routine is important and being outisde in nature.

Janice Walton's avatar

Hi Linda, Absolutely true - routines and being outside in nature are so important. I also try to have windows open to let fresh air in.

Victoria's avatar

An important article, Janice - I'd also like to add that trying to balance out a healthy diet is important. It's too easy to grab food or eat leftovers. It's very easy to eat or drink emotions instead of walking them out.

Janice Walton's avatar

Hi Victoria, Absolutely true. I'm pretty good about fixing for myself meals - and at the same time leftovers play a major role. I love your last sentence. "It's very easy to eat or drink emotions instead of walking them out. What an important point.

Kristina God's avatar

Me time is so important then. ❤️ Love the surfing 🌊 dog. I once really saw a surfing dog. Need to find the pic and send it to you via Notes. So you will join the Notes Club and grow faster.

Congrats 👏🎉 1000 subs is HUGE!!

Janice Walton's avatar

Hi Kristina, That would be great.