@Frustrated10 Lack of motivation can be a problem with Sz, and it has been shown that daily living issues such as adequate nutrition, physical health, house keeping and socialising are all part of holistic care and lead to better outcomes and quality of life. Whilst independent living is seen as a desirable, in the absence of anyone to be accountable to, these areas can become problematic for some patients and lead to a poorer quality of life.
For those who live on their own, having family who maintain constant contact who are more blunt/bossy than a social worker in enforcing house keeping (esp if rental inspections are pending) as well as showing expectations that social services will be accessed/used is often what is needed not only to maintain a basic standard of living, but also to ensure social interaction; in addition family are often relied upon to keep an eye out for other health issues and taking person to appts and social functions. Little wonder we as carers get exhausted ... but it is well documented that those patients with appropriate family support do far better than those without it.
Self care and boundaries are so important when caring for loved ones. Regular visit times are often helpful ie. once a week to ensure jobs (clothes washing, shopping, housework) are done and having a social time on the alternate catch up such as a meal with family can be helpful for some (with the expectation that they shower in both occasions).
