When your loved one starts to need help with the activities of daily living, it can be difficult to know when to step in, or how to determine when they require more assistance than the support you already provide. 

If your loved one is exhibiting some of the next signs, it might be time to proactively talk with them about care options as they age. These conversations are difficult, yet very crucial to have, so be sure to have the discussion before the situation worsens and it becomes too late. There are several warning signs to look out for to determine if it is time for your loved ones to seek out professional assistance in the home. Listed below are five prominent signs that in-home care is required by your loved one, along with tips for having this tough conversation.

 

1. They are struggling to complete daily tasks on their own

If you’re noticing that your aging parent is having trouble completing everyday tasks without getting help from you, it may be time to think about hiring an in-home caregiver.  They can be helpful to the idea for bathing, dressing, eating, and brushing teeth; such tasks are typical as loved ones age and require assistance in daily living.

According to the National Alliance for Home Care, in-home care provides constant support for seniors so they can live independently, which also increases the quality of life for the senior… as well as for their family.

There are many benefits to having someone visit your home and care for you while you’re there, including:

1. Keeping your loved one safe and sound in their own familiar environment

2. Providing peace-of-mind knowing that they are being taken care of while you’re away

3. Providing companionship and support during difficult times

4. Helping with activities of daily living, such as bathing, eating, cleaning and dressing 

There are many different caregiver options available based on your family members’ needs. It might be time to speak with your loved one about their needs and choose a comfortable method of care for themselves.

 

2. They are isolated, lonely and appear aloof

If your loved one seems withdrawn, isolated, and distinct from many others or compared to how they usually are, do not ignore the signs. It might be time to start that conversation with them on what might be going on, and if it’s time to seek help at home. 

Caregivers provide companionship to the elderly who no longer have the capacity to live independently. Whether it’s due to illness, injury, or a decrease in physical ability, home caregivers make life easier for those who are no longer able to take care of themselves. Some individuals discover that having an in-home caregiver allows them to improve their relationship since the burden of caring for their aging loved one is now relieved from their obligations and stress. Caregivers allow families to spend more quality time with their relatives, without excess anxiety and stress.

 

3. Their home and hygiene are untidy

If your loved ones’ house and hygiene are unkempt, seeking professional care might be a proactive solution to consider before conditions worsen in the home. It might seem daunting at first to have a professional caregiver come into your home and help, but if it means preserving your loved one’s sense of independence and comfort, it will be a senior care option that is a worthwhile decision for everyone involved.

There are a variety of widely available services to assist you with simple tasks such as cleaning, food preparation, and supplying prescription reminders. At Total Care Connections in Phoenix, AZ and Tucson Arizona, we have around-the-clock certified caregivers who are ready to help keep your family safe at home. We know how important it is to choose a home caregiver that is suitable to your family member, and the tasks they require help with. We make sure to provide caregiver-matching services in the process of creating an individualized care plan for your loved one. 

We believe in individualized care for each patient and their family, as well as maintaining an open channel of communication between caregiver and family. This way, we can all work together to ensure your loved one is well taken care of. 

 

4. They are experiencing signs of weight loss

If your aging parent is showing signs of decrease in appetite or weight loss, it is time to consider getting help in the home. Home care services and caregivers can provide the much-needed support system for those who are unable to move on their own due to physical or functional impairments, and need help with meals and cooking. 

Some of the typical indications of an elderly person losing weight include decreased appetite, decreased physical activity, and a decrease in overall energy. Sometimes, an aging loved one may even be experiencing a change in mental health, such as an increase in anxiety or depression. All of these reasons are signs to look for when your loved one is experiencing weight loss.  

If you or a loved one is experiencing these changes, make sure to monitor their wellness immediately as it could be a sign of declining health, as well. Make sure to also take action and decide what steps you can take together as a family to get help. 

 

5. They have been experiencing a change in mood

Signs of aging may also include mood swings and changes in attitude. If you think your loved one is having a tough time in their senior age, especially mentally and emotionally, it may be time to hire a caregiver. Because caretakers can cook, clean, and provide companionship, your loved one can find life much easier with the help of just one. 

There are a number of different kinds of caregivers, as well as home care services, so it’s important to find the one that fits your loved one’s needs. This allows your loved one to receive the complete care and also happiness they deserve to live the best life possible. If you and your family need help with this decision making process, make sure to reach out to Total Care Connections for insight and guidance. We’re here to help. 

 

Signs that YOU need help, too  

We’ve discussed the 5 signs that indicate whether or not your loved one needs help… but we haven’t discussed the signs indicating whether or not home care might be right for you, too. 

If you are thinking about whether to seek home care services for your parents or not, you should consider the abilities and sentiments of this transitional period in your life, as well as your family life as a whole. Here are some signs you can look for in yourself to see if home-based care for your parents… is also right for you: 

1. You feel it’s too challenging for you to do it all on your own

2. Your schedule prohibits you from taking care of them yourself

3. Your family member requires specialized medical attention that you’re not trained for

4. It’s difficult for you to take care of your loved one by yourself

5. You feel overwhelmed and unprepared to handle this task

 

Why You Shouldn’t Wait for All 5 Signs to Seek Help 

Many people mistakenly believe that if a loved one is only displaying a few of the top 5 warning signs, they aren’t in danger and can seek treatment on their own. This does not, however, always apply. If a loved one is exhibiting any of these symptoms, it is crucial to act swiftly in order to make sure they are protected in the long run. 

Don’t allow yourself to wait too long to start finding help for your aging parent. Home care services can help your aging parent live comfortably at home while you’re around to tend to their requirements.

If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, it is time to talk to your parents about getting more help.

 

Contact Us for Your Home Care Needs in Phoenix, AZ 

If you have any questions about aging in place, we have the answers. Here at Total Care Connections, we put your family first. We’ve been proudly serving the greater Phoenix, Tempe, and Maricopa County Areas for over 14 years, and have become the leading provider of in-home care services in Arizona. 

We believe that with the right help, seniors can age safely and happily in the comfort of their own home. 
Questions? We’re here to help. Please contact our care staff anytime at info@totalcareconnections.com, or by phone at (480-387-1927).