It can be difficult to see your aging parents have difficulty completing tasks that they once did with ease. Taking care of the dishes after dinner, driving to an appointment, and keeping up with their personal hygiene have become daunting tasks as their mobility and health decline. You don’t mind helping them more as they age, but you can’t help but wonder when you need to talk about bringing in a professional caregiver. Below are some common signs to look for.
Changes in Behavior
If your aging loved one is having drastic mood swings, uncharacteristic outbursts, or a lack of interest in activities they usually enjoy, it may be a sign of declining mental and physical health. This includes sudden weight loss or weight gain that may be tied to health changes or a lack of proper nutrition. A sudden shift in behavior can also be a warning sign of declining cognitive function and dementia. Talk to your loved one’s medical provider and consider finding an in-home caregiver to monitor your aging parent’s health.
Decline in Personal Hygiene
Your loved one may be neglecting their bathing, grooming, and housekeeping as they age. Whether a decline in personal hygiene is caused by memory loss, depression, or physical health limitations, an in-home caregiver can ensure they get the care they need to age comfortably and with dignity.
Loneliness and Isolation
Noticing your aging loved one withdraw from others as they age can be challenging. One in three adults aged 50 to 80 experience loneliness regularly. Loneliness and isolation are predominant in the aging population as changes in health and daily routines transition and change. If your loved one has challenges getting out of the house, it can increase their risk for loneliness and related health complications. An in-home caregiver can provide companionship to your loved one in their home, and can make getting to appointments, daily walks outdoors, and community events possible with transportation services.
Difficulty Managing Daily Tasks
Your loved one may become confused or physically unable to perform activities of daily living as they age, such as keeping up with cooking, cleaning, and housework. In-home caregivers will work with your family to assess the level of support your loved one needs to create a custom care plan to help with these tasks.
Mobility Challenges
If you are worried about your aging loved one falling, or if they have already had unexplained falls and bruises, it’s important to seek professional help from an in-home care team. An in-home caregiver will give you peace of mind that your loved one is safe, and they can also help your loved one improve their mobility through physician-approved exercise regimens.
Caregiver Burnout
Has your own health suffered as you care for your aging parent? This is extremely common, but it doesn't have to continue. If you are feeling burnt out as the primary caregiver to an aging family member, HomeSpark can help. Whether you are interested in short-term relief in the form of respite care or if your loved one needs long-term support, we will work with you to craft a plan that keeps them safe as they age.
HomeSpark In-Home Care
HomeSpark offers professional, non-medical home care for families in the Bryan/College Station community. Our services include companionship, meal preparation, personal care, transportation, help with household duties, and respite care. Contact HomeSpark to learn more about how we can support you.