6 Signs That Signal Your Elderly Loved One Needs In-Home Care

Is your aging loved one slowing down? If so, it may be time to consider in-home care. Senior in-home care services are designed to improve the quality of life, safety, and overall happiness of the elderly. These services are often tailored to the unique needs of the individual and their level of mobility and independence. Of course, in-home care is not for everyone. Learn what signs to look for when determining whether your loved one needs assistance from an in-home care agency.

1. Disheveled Appearance

One of the first things you are likely to notice about your loved one is changes in the way they look. It is not unusual for seniors to develop a disheveled or unkempt appearance. Often times, a change in appearance is due to an individual’s inability to care for themselves. Many seniors find it difficult to shower regularly, brush their hair, or wash their clothes due to mobility or balance issues. In some instances, it is not a lack of coordination that is the problem, but rather certain disorders like depression or the start of dementia.

2. House and/or Yard in Disarray

As your loved one grows older, it will become harder and harder for her to complete chores around the house. You may notice laundry piling up, dirty dishes in the sink, or thick layers of dust on surfaces. Outside the home, you may notice that the landscaping requires maintenance. The yard may be overgrown, the garden may be filled with weeds, and the trees may be left untrimmed. The house and yard may also show signs of a pest infestation, such as bees’ nests tucked in eaves or caterpillar webs in trees.

3. Declining Health and Wellbeing

Another sign that your elderly loved one may need in-home care includes unmet health needs. You may discover that your loved one has missed several important doctor appointments due to the inability to remember the appointment or from lack of transportation. Seniors may also forget to take their medications or take the incorrect dose of their medications. Look for prescription bottles that are full or bottles that have not been refilled. You will also want to watch out for any conditions that have gotten noticeably worse over time. These ailments can range from minor cuts that look infected to a lingering cough or limp.

4. Poor Nutritional Health

While proper nutrition is important at all stages of life, it is particularly crucial during the elderly years. Unfortunately, many seniors find it impractical to prepare meals for one, or are unable to shop or cook for themselves. Common signs that your loved one may not be receiving the nutrition they need include gradual weight gain or loss, an un-stocked pantry or refrigerator, or general weakness and declining health. Some seniors will stop eating due to a lack of appetite. If your loved one eats very little, a professional exam may be required to determine the cause.

5. Withdrawal from Favorite Activities

Maybe your mom stopped going to church after many decades of attending. Or perhaps your dad stopped taking his beloved pet for walks. If you notice that your loved one has withdrawn from their normal activities, you will want to determine the reason for it. In some cases, a withdrawal from favorite activities is caused by mobility issues. In other instances, it can be associated with depression or another illness. Speak with your loved one about their behavior changes to determine if in-home care is a good choice.

6. Unexplained Bruising or Injuries

While the occasional scrape or bruise is usually nothing to worry about, seeing constant injuries on your loved one’s body may be a cause of concern. Unexplained bumps and abrasions could mean that the individual is unable to get around the home as easily as she could before. Due to declining mobility or eyesight, she may bump into items or fall. If you notice these types of injuries on a recurring basis, talk to your loved one about the cause of the bruising or injury and recommend the help of an in-home care provider.

What Makes In-Home Care Different

As our loved ones age, a change in care often becomes necessary. However, it is the decision of the individual and their family to decide whether to age in place or move to a nursing home or assisted living facility. While nursing homes offer the elderly a safe place to receive direct medical care, many seniors prefer to enjoy their golden years in the comfort of their own home. That is why many families find in-home care services to be the best solution for their elderly loved ones. There are a number of benefits to choosing in-home care.

In-home care services ensure that your loved one receives the one-on-one, personalized care she needs to thrive. The complete attention of the caregiver is focused on the elderly individual to ensure that every need is met. In-home care services can also provide families with peace of mind. You can feel good knowing that your loved one is receiving the quality and professional care he needs. If your loved one has recently been discharged from the hospital or is dealing with an illness or injury, an in-home care provider can also help ensure that the recovery process goes smoothly.

Contact an In-Home Care Agency

Today, in-home care services are the preferred choice of most seniors and their families. While many elderly individuals maintain a good quality of life in nursing homes, the majority of older adults would prefer to stay in the comfort of their own homes. In-home care allows older adults to maintain some level of independence while having the ability to stay connected to friends and loved ones. This often translates to a happier life. In-home care services for seniors are also very affordable and a suitable alternative to long-term skilled care. For more information about in-home care services, contact an in-home care agency today.