Making the decision to seek in home care can be a difficult move for some families to make. Many potential clients fear that in home care will rob them of their independence, and they are reluctant to ask for help. The fact is that a caregiver can help keep our loved ones safe, and allow them to remain in the comfort of their own home. How do you know when it’s time to have this discussion? Here are five tell-tale signs that your loved one may need in home care:
- Forgetfulness
It’s rather common for forgetfulness to accompany old age. However, when does forgetfulness impact quality of life? If your loved one is constantly misplacing things, forgetting to take medication, and missing appointments, these could be an early warning sign of Alzheimer’s or dementia. It can be frightening to witness someone you love become confused or disoriented. You may feel the need to leave notes around their house, or call them to ask if they turned the burner off after cooking a meal. Proper in home care can provide great peace of mind for all parties involved, and lessen the pressure on your loved one. Having someone to drive them to appointments, administer medication, and help around the house can be a life-changing help. Learn more about assistance with daily living tasks. - Accidents
If you notice bruises or scrapes on your loved one, investigate the causes. Decreased motor skills, coordination and balance issues are serious safety concerns. It might be time to consider a caregiver. Even if you renovate their home, adding grab bars and other safety measures, what happens if they do fall? When you can’t be there, having a caregiver is the next best thing. They can assist with bathing, daily tasks, and transportation. On the topic of transportation, accidents while driving are another crucial indicator help is needed. If you notice scratches or dents on their car, it is time to consider safer transportation alternatives.
- Home in Disarray
It can be devastating to visit your loved one and discover them living in less than ideal circumstances. When the house is a mess, trash is piling up, and the plants haven’t been watered in weeks, many of us look for the reasons why. Are they forgetting their everyday tasks such as dishes and laundry? Are they are depressed, or have their activities of daily living simply exceeded their capabilities? At the end of the day, in home care may help in each of these cases. - Change in Appearance
Poor personal hygiene is another sign that an in home caregiver might be necessary. Perhaps their hair is unbrushed, they aren’t bathing regularly, or they are wearing dirty clothes. This could be the result of mild cognitive impairment, or mobility and coordination challenges. In home care can assist with daily hygiene tasks, preserving your loved ones’ dignity and standard of living. - Change in Personality
Depression can be one of the most difficult symptoms to observe in someone you love. Your loved one may become quiet, withdrawn, or moody, and no longer enjoy their usual activities. Caregivers can provide essential companionship and prevent social isolation. In an ideal caregiver situation, the caregiver will not only assist with daily living, but also become a compassionate friend. Read Client Testimonials about the relationships our caregivers have built with clients.
Whether or not your family ultimately decides to hire an in home caregiver, the more information you have, the better. Contact us by clicking the button below to learn more!
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