What are the signs that a loved one needs home care support?

The aging process affects us all in different ways. Some aging adults might require minimal help, some do more due to declining health issues, an illness, a condition, and or a disease. In most cases, seniors will not communicate to admit that they need any outside help to continue living in their home or their place of living. 

If you have an aging parent or know a senior who may be struggling to live independently, it's important to recognize the warning signs that indicate they might need assistance. The aging process can lead to various challenges, and many seniors may hesitate to ask for help. Look for changes in their daily habits, such as difficulty with personal care, challenges in managing household tasks, or increased social isolation. Being attentive to these signs can help ensure they receive the support they need to maintain their quality of life.

The Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) encompass the essential skills required for self-care and indicate an individual's functional status. As we age, simple tasks like showering, dressing, and meal preparation can become increasingly challenging. Aging adults need to maintain a healthy routine, as it plays a crucial role in their overall well-being. By focusing on these daily activities, seniors can promote their independence and enhance their quality of life.

• Struggling to maintain the Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)

• Changes in physical health & appearance 

• Cognitive decline - forgetfulness, ability to concentrate & memory loss

• A lack of communication with family members and or loved ones

• Trust issues & decline in healthy judgment

• Self-isolation & Depression

Seniors may often conceal their difficulties with daily tasks, making it challenging for family and loved ones to recognize when help is needed. Unfortunately, many families only become aware of these issues after a fall or a medical emergency occurs. 

To prevent such situations, it's important to establish a routine that allows you to monitor any decline in their ability to perform daily activities. Many family members often notice physical changes before recognizing declines in functionality or cognitive abilities, so staying vigilant can make a difference in ensuring their safety and well-being.

 Make notes if you observe any of the following indicators:

• Any difficulties in meal preparation, cooking & shopping, eating, and in weight loss due to a poor diet

• A lack in personal hygiene due to infrequent showering/bathing, grooming & dressing

• Bruises or wounds that can indicate a tendency to fall and a decline

• Uncleanliness in the home, especially in the bathroom & kitchen

• A lack of healthy, low food supply, and or spoiled food in the fridge

• Unclean & stained bed linens, towels, furniture, or carpets

• Smell of urine in the home

• The person wearing the same clothes

• No cleaning or laundry supplies

• Piled up laundry

• Unfilled prescriptions and unopened mail

• Clutter and possible hoarding

• Neglect to dispose of spoiled food & garbage

• Forgetfulness to perform tasks, missing appointments, and medications

• Repetitive speech patterns - unable to complete a sentence

• Misplacing things, confusion, and irritability

• Personality changes - loss of reasoning skills 

• Decline in finances & paying bills 

• Getting lost walking or driving

• Unsafe driving and any dents or scratches on the car

• Trips & possible falls in the home and on outings

• Feeling down & depressed, and /expressing negative thoughts

• Declining social skills and low self-worth

Starting a casual conversation about the benefits of being flexible and open to outside help can significantly impact a senior's ability to maintain their independence. Discussing available senior living options while considering their financial situation is key. It's important to respect their wishes and values, as these factors will determine the best setting for them to in place comfortable. By fostering an open dialogue, you can help them feel supported and empowered in their choices.

Make a list of the things you observed and monitored to take action to help. Keep in mind that any seniors with cognitive decline won't remember the conversation. In that case, refer to https://alzheimer.ca/bc/ for more help in managing conversing with Dementia & Alzheimer's patients.

Consider consulting with a private quality home care company that provides flexible services through qualified, consistent caregivers. These professionals can assist with personal, specialized care, companionship, and homemaking, greatly enhancing a senior's life. 

In-home senior care not only provides more quality time but also offers peace of mind for families, knowing their loved ones are receiving essential support in a comfortable setting. It's crucial to involve all family members in discussions and, if authorized, consult the senior's family physician for health and medication information. Additionally, researching Advance care planning is important, as many seniors have a Power of Attorney who can assist in initiating the in-home care process or facilitate a transition to a higher level of care if needed.

Let’s start a conversation today on how Seniors Choice For Care can help with home support or care services to cultivate a supportive environment for a senior. Call Diane Miller, a retired Nurse/Founder/Director of Care, at 604.551.8867 to arrange a free in-home consultation.

Companionship home support - Seniors Choice For Crre Inc.