Warnings signs that Seniors may need additional home care assistance
Many of you spent time with older family members during the holiday season. During your time together, did you observe any of the possible warning signs that they may be in need of additional assistance?
Did you see changes to a person’s physical or mental health including their living situation? This may raise your concerns about their ability to live independently.
Every January, senior home care businesses see an increase in phone calls inquiring about in-home care for elderly family members. Sometimes family members, especially those who live out of town, can be overwhelmed trying to figure out the best care option and where to start looking for assistance.
Age-related decline can occur rapidly. In some cases, seniors may conceal new and worsening problems about their health from their loved ones.
Warning signs
The warning signs that signal that these elderly family members may need additional help or care include: Forgetfulness or confusion
Neglect of physical appearance or basic hygiene
Neglect of medical needs
Personality changes
Trouble performing routine tasks
The inability to handle finances or pay bills
Clumsiness or a recent history of falling.
It is important that families do not ignore these signs and properly address the situation as quickly as possible.
Steps to take
The first step is to schedule a visit to their primary care physician for a check-up to ensure there are no underlying medical issues.
The senior’s physician is the best resource to help determine if professional home health care, such as nursing care or physical therapy is necessary. Sometimes all that is necessary is non-medical support.
The most difficult part may be talking to your loved ones about their need for assistance. But once they’ve agreed to it; they can ease into it.
Most families start with a caregiver for a few hours a week who can help with most of the basic needs. It may be that 24-hour live-in care is necessary for someone needing full-time monitoring.
Most elderly people want to remain in their own home and home care is a more cost-effective than an in-patient care facility.
Canyon Lake Senior Home Care is a non-medical service that provides care by well trained Caregivers who come into your home and assist seniors with many tasks which makes life easier on them. Please contact us for a Complementary Consultation and FREE Home Safety Inspection.
