It happens suddenly - you visit your aging mother and find her struggling to stand upright to wash the dishes, or you notice your aging father doesn't move as much as he did the last time you visited. The changes may be subtle, but you start to wonder if it’s time to consider an in-home care plan for your aging loved one. Bringing a caregiver into your home can be an emotional decision, and recognizing when a loved one may need in-home care can be challenging. Below are some signs to consider.

Changes in Daily Living

According to Harvard Health, 2 out of 3 adults over the age of 65 need assistance with activities of daily living. If you notice your aging loved one neglecting their personal care, such as bathing or grooming, declining to clean or organize their home suddenly, or having difficulty preparing meals, it may be a sign that they are finding these tasks more challenging to complete than they once were. Your aging parent may feel shame or confusion around this challenge, and rather than talk to the family about it, you may instead notice piles of laundry beginning to accumulate or your loved one’s hygiene deteriorating.

Health Concerns

95% of older adults are living with at least one chronic health condition such as arthritis, diabetes, or heart disease, and 80% of seniors have two or more conditions. Many chronic health concerns require health monitoring or assistance. If your aging loved one’s health is declining, if they are recovering from a surgery that may necessitate additional support, or if they struggle to remember to take prescribed medications, non-medical in-home care could be beneficial to their health.

Cognitive Changes

Cognitive health is just as important as mental health, but changes in cognitive health can be more subtle at times. If you notice your loved one struggling with retaining memories, getting lost in familiar places, missing important appointments, or forgetting recent conversations, it may be a sign that they could use the assistance of an in-home caretaker to keep them safe and mentally stimulated.

Mobility Issues

Staying active with aging is associated with better physical health, mental cognition, and flexibility. If your aging loved one is struggling with mobility, exercise can be a challenge. Mobility issues can manifest as difficulty walking, standing up from a seated position, or maintaining balance. As your loved one ages, these challenges are often linked to weakened muscles, joint inflammation, and chronic health conditions. An in-home caregiver can help your loved one stay active with safe, physician-approved exercises.

Social Withdrawal

Is your loved one decreasing their social interaction or showing reluctance to engage with friends and family? Withdrawal and loss of interest in activities they typically enjoy are prominent signs of mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety. In-home caregivers can provide emotional support in the form of companionship care and by helping your loved one stick to a daily routine.

Safety Concerns

If you fear for the safety of your aging loved one, or receive input from friends, family, or caregivers who notice changes in behavior or abilities, it is a sign that they need additional assistance as they age. In-home caregivers will perform a home safety assessment to remove clutter, poor lighting, or other hazards that could lead to accidents and help your loved one plan for emergencies.

Finding an In-Home Caregiver

If you recognize these signs in your aging loved one, start by having an open conversation and expressing your concerns in a supportive and understanding way. Recognizing these signs early on can play a crucial role in ensuring your loved one receives the necessary care to maintain their quality of life. At HomeSpark, we want to help you make the best possible choice for you and your loved ones. Learn more about our non-medical, in-home care services today.