No matter how healthy your senior loved one seems to be, there will most likely come a time when he or she regularly needs some type of assistance around the home. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and make sure your parent has plenty of help well before any injuries or mishaps occur. Here’s a quick look at a few signs your loved one might be ready for some type of home care.
Issues with Mobility
Balance issues are common among the elderly, and they cause many injuries every year. Many older adults also have limited strength, so they aren’t able to catch themselves when they start to fall over. If your loved one seems unsteady when standing up, speak with him or her about getting a little bit of help around the home. You might also want to speak with a doctor about mobility devices and a good training routine to increase your loved one’s strength and balance.
Mobility issues are among the most common reasons aging adults need assistance, and a professional caregiver can be a wonderful asset. At-home care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
Sudden Changes in Appetite or Dietary Habits
Relatively healthy seniors should never gain or lose more than a few pounds a month, and their family members should always keep an eye on their dietary habits. A wide variety of issues can change an individual’s appetite, including a loss of taste and serious health complications. Having a caregiver there to prepare meals or remind your loved one to eat snacks might be enough to keep him or her at a healthy weight. An experienced caregiver can also keep track of what your loved one eats and ensure he or she is getting plenty of vitamins and minerals.
Some seniors have difficulty shopping for groceries or making healthy meals for themselves. Aging in place can present a few unique challenges for older adults. Some only require part-time assistance with exercise or meal preparation, while others are living with serious illnesses and benefit more significantly from receiving live-in care. Danville, CA, Assisting Hands Home Care are leaders in the elderly in-home care industry for good reason. We tailor our care plans based on each senior’s individual needs, our caregivers continue to receive updated training in senior care as new developments arise, and we also offer comprehensive care for seniors with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Parkinson’s.
The House Is Messy or Falling into Disrepair
Some people are naturally messy, but you need to be wary of any sudden changes to your loved one’s home or property. Seniors who are depressed might stop cleaning or carrying out maintenance tasks simply because they have no drive or motivation. They might also be too proud to ask for help, which can lead to much bigger concerns down the road. Sitting down with your loved one and asking if he or she needs a little bit of help around the house every week is a great place to start, but your loved one will most likely need some convincing.
Unexplained Bruises or Other Injuries
With age, the body isn’t able to mend injuries as quickly, which is why seniors need to do everything in their power to prevent injuries altogether. If left untreated, a single laceration or rash could turn into a major infection. Older adults also have fewer nerve endings, and some injuries might not be noticed for weeks. In addition to catching those injuries early on, caregivers can also keep them clean and dressed.
If you see any of the signs listed above, talk openly with your aging loved one about the possibility of hiring a professional caregiver to help. When considering home care, Danville, CA, families should make sure their senior loved ones have the resources they need to maintain their independence and remain healthy. Trusted in-home care professionals can assist seniors with daily tasks like cooking, bathing, and exercise, and they can also encourage them to focus on healthier lifestyle habits. If your loved one needs professional care, Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help. To hire a compassionate, dedicated caregiver, call us today.
