5 Signs that your loved one may need in-home care
As we age, it’s natural to require more assistance and support with day to day tasks. But when does someone transition from fully independent to needing assistance to remain safely at home? Here are a few signs to look out for that may indicate that it is time to pursue in-home care for your loved one
1. Changes in routine:
Have you noticed your loved one not doing as many things as they did before? These may include hobbies in and outside the home, basic personal care tasks like bathing, dressing, and grooming, or more complex tasks like preparing meals, cleaning the house, or managing their medications.This could be a sign that they need support. One of the most common reasons seniors seek in-home care is due to difficulty keeping up with daily tasks on their own
2. Safety Concerns
Do you find yourself worried that your loved one may get hurt or fall? Or have they fallen in the past? Has it become more difficult for them to navigate certain areas of their home? Are they struggling with stairs or transitions from sitting to standing, or in and out of the bath or shower, for example? If you have any of these concerns, these are a good reason to seek in-home support, as falls can often trigger more complex medical problems for seniors.
3. Chronic Health Conditions
Has your loved one been diagnosed with a chronic health condition, such as diabetes, heart disease, or Alzheimer's? If so, they may require more intensive care and support. In-home caregivers can provide specialized care for these conditions and help manage symptoms. They can also monitor health conditions and report any changes to their healthcare providers.
4. Change of temperament or loneliness
Has your loved one become moodier, snappier or perhaps quieter than they usually are? If they have it may be a sign that they are feeling lonely or frustrated. Many seniors experience social isolation and loneliness, which can have a negative impact on their mental and physical health. In-home caregivers can provide companionship and engage your loved one in activities that promote socialization and mental stimulation. Even simple activities like playing cards, taking a walk around the block or listening to music together can bring great joy to a senior who may otherwise spend many of their days alone.
5. Family Caregiver Stress
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the responsibility of providing care and support for your loved one? Or have you noticed that your loved ones' family caregiver is overwhelmed, irritable or stressed out? Family caregivers often experience burnout, especially when providing care for a loved one with complex needs. In-home care can provide respite for family caregivers, allowing them to take a break and recharge.
If you’ve answered “yes” to one or more of the questions above , it may be time to explore in-home care. You can begin by doing some research–contacting local aging resource centers, learning about payment options, looking into caregiving agencies in your area–and importantly, talking with your loved one about the prospect of care. It's important to approach the conversation with sensitivity and compassion.
Many elders are initially resistant to the idea of receiving care, as they may view it as a loss of independence. Emphasize the benefits of in-home care and the importance of staying safe and healthy when introducing the idea to your loved one and listen to their concerns. When you connect with a home care provider, make sure that they can be compassionate to those concerns and include your loved one in the process of creating a care plan with the home care provider you choose.
Ultimately, the decision to seek in-home care will depend on your loved one’s individual needs and preferences, and the needs and preferences of those helping to care for the individual. But if you have concerns, it's best not to wait until a crisis situation forces you to make a rushed decision. Take your time now to have meaningful conversations with your loved one, while they can actively participate in the decision making process.
Do your research, so when the time comes for care, you know what kind of care and agency you want. Click here to learn more about Home Care Associates, our caregivers, who are also owners of the company, go above and beyond to ensure your loved one is cared for like family.
