Age is just a number, some of us may be able to live fully independent lives well into our 80’s, whilst others may need a helping hand a few years earlier. Sometimes it can be hard to tell when you need to ask for extra help, so here’s some significant signs your loved one may need in-home care.
1. Forgetfulness
If your loved one seems to be racking up outstanding bills, losing themselves in the supermarket or forgetting to take vital medication it may be time to look into getting extra help at home. Memory problems such as these could also be a symptom of dementia or Alzheimer’s.
2. Major Health Concerns
Chronic illnesses can often require regular hospital visits for IV treatments or dialysis. Serious health conditions can take their toll, especially with the elderly. Professional home care can alleviate some of the stresses of living with a chronic condition.
3. Poor hygeine
A decline in personal grooming can be an indicator that day-to-day tasks are becoming too much of a challenge. Hair washing, clean clothes, brushed teeth and bathing may of been once-familiar tasks, but if these are lacking this is a big indicator your family member may need extra assistance in the home.
4. Change in personality
Changes in personality can be an indicator professional help may be needed. Things to look for are extreme mood swings, isolation, loss of interest in once-loved hobbies and activities, dissociation from friends and family and depression.
5. Injuries
Falling is one of the biggest threats to ageing seniors. Hip fractures and head injuries are all too common to older adults, but by equipping the home with mobility aids and reducing household hazardous a safe environment can be achieved. Nutrient deficiencies, strong medications and a weakened body can all accumulate if a healthy and balanced life isn’t being accomplished, this is where dedicated home care assistance can help.
6. Struggling with day-to-day tasks
If preparing meals, housekeeping, gardening and grooming all seem to have become issues for your loved one, it’s time to take note. Not performing what used to be normal day-to-day tasks can greatly affect wellbeing and will gradually become more and more of an issue. It’s worth exploring some light home help options as soon as you see signs of this.
7. Unable to Drive Safely
Driving is a big part of an adult’s independence, so when you have to explain to your loved one that they need to hang up their keys, it’s never an easy conversation. But if safety is in question, it’s a conversation that needs to be had. Easing the blow by offering some affordable assistance to run errands is a sensible option to consider.
What to do next
If you’ve decided home care is the right option for your loved one, the next thing to consider is which level of care they might need. The options range from a few hours a day, to 24hr live-in care. By chatting to one of our home care specialists they can help you decide on the right level of care to suit you and the care recipient. We have a range of affordable care solutions and a passionate and professional care team that are waiting for your call.