Admitting the need for help and accepting assistance is not easy for people as they age. The responsibility often falls on family members to recognise the signs that an aging loved one might need support with completing daily living tasks. At this time it is often that the family feel that they wish they could do more for their loved ones and can this can make them feel extremely guilty. How do you know if it is time for in-home care?
There are pointers that you can be looking out for.
Changes in physical function and mental status
There are lots of things you can look out for including difficulty keeping track of time, sleeping most of the day, poor diet and weight loss and loss of interest in hobbies and interests. They may seem to be having difficulty in getting around or keeping balance and you may have noticed unexplained bruising or injuries. Missing appointments or forgetting things especially familiar tasks could be noticeable.
Changes in personal hygiene
Sometimes, you may notice a decline in grooming habits and personal care. This may lead to unpleasant body odour and infrequent bathing and showering.
Neglecting household responsibilities
Keeping on top of things at home can become too much for them to do. You start to notice dirty laundry piling up, no healthy food in the frige or spoiled food not thrown away and their home in general not being as clean as normal. Keeping on top of their finances and bills can all be but too daunting and may lead to late payment notices and charges and even utilities being turned off.
Hiring a home care company
If these signs are present, it doesn’t necessarily mean a move to assisted living or a nursing home is required. However, if you do start to notice these signs there is help at hand. If you require any further advice or information please do not hesitate to contact one of our Apollo Care teams. Apollo, where care comes first.