Does Your Loved One Need Home Care?

Age can be a beautiful thing, but as we watch our friends and family age, we may start to notice a difference in behavior and ability. Here are a few signs you should look out for when you’re trying to decide if your loved one needs a little bit of extra help:

• Forgetfulness: We’ve all had moments where we forgot where we left the house keys or TV remote, but are you noticing an increase in how often your loved one can’t remember simple things like a friend’s name or their address? Forgetfulness comes with age, or it can be a warning sign for Alzheimer’s or dementia.
  
  
• Lack of nutrition: Check out their kitchen; is there more than one or two items of expired food? If they aren’t being properly fed, a family member or caregiver needs to step in and help grocery shop so that they are receiving proper nutrition for a healthy body.
  
  
• Frequent Injuries: Are you noticing a few more bumps and bruises on your dad or mom? This may be from the lack of stability your loved one is now facing as they age. An in-home caregiver would be able to help with their balance when walking or trying to accomplish tasks which would help to prevent any further injuries.
  
  
• Health Issues: Recovery time is different for every individual. If you are noticing your loved one’s recovery process from a recent illness or surgery is not going as fast as expected, a caregiver may be what’s best. They will be able to monitor weekly, daily and/or hourly changes to ensure the well-being of your loved one.
  
  

Other signs to be aware of are poor hygiene, driving accidents, social isolation and personality adjustments. If you notice any of these signs it’s time to have a conversation about hiring someone to help.

We know how difficult this is for patients and their families. No one wants to give up their independence, and that’s why we become an extension of the families we work with. Make sure you listen to your loved one when they bring up concerns and fully answer any questions that may come up. Reassure them that you have their best interest and safety at heart. Remember, it may take some time for them to accept this decision.