One of the most difficult parts of having a senior parent who is living alone is knowing when they need extra help at home. Your senior parent may not want to talk to you about needing help because they are afraid that they will have to give up their independence.
But as your senior loved one gets older or as their health gets worse they may find it difficult to do the things around the house that need to get done for their own health and safety. In-home care is a great option for seniors who want to continue living on their own but need some extra help.
If your senior parent has in-home care they will have an extra pair of hands to help with tasks like cleaning or cooking that are becoming too difficult for them. And you’ll have the peace of mind of knowing that they aren’t alone at home struggling to do household tasks.
So how will you know if your senior parent needs in-home care if they won’t tell you? Look for these signs. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to talk to them about getting in-home care:
Their Home is Messy or Unsafe
If your senior parent has always kept their home neat but now it looks cluttered or dirty, this could be a sign they are struggling.
Unwashed dishes, piles of laundry, overflowing trash, or expired food in the fridge might mean they are having trouble keeping up with household chores.
More concerning signs include seeing obvious tripping hazards in the home like loose rugs, broken furniture, or lights with burned-out bulbs. A caregiver can help make the home safer and more comfortable by clearing clutter and making sure there are no obvious safety hazards.
They Forget to Eat or Aren’t Eating Enough
If your parent is skipping meals, losing weight, or eating mostly unhealthy, processed foods, they may need help with meal planning and preparation.
Cooking can become difficult due to low energy, memory problems, or a lack of interest in eating alone. You might notice spoiled food in the fridge, empty cupboards, or that your parent is eating the same thing every day. A caregiver can ensure they have healthy meals, eat regularly, and stay hydrated.
They Seem Lonely or Withdrawn
Seniors who spend a lot of time alone may become lonely, which can lead to depression. If your parent used to enjoy social activities but now avoid friends, family, or hobbies, this could be a sign they need companionship.
You may notice they seem sad, uninterested in conversations, or no longer engage in favorite pastimes. A caregiver provides companionship, conversation, and social interaction to help prevent isolation and keep your parent emotionally engaged.
They Struggle with Daily Tasks
Everyday tasks that were once easy can become difficult with age. If your parent is having trouble dressing, brushing their hair, or keeping up with personal grooming, they may need extra support.
You might notice they wear the same clothes for days, have uncombed hair, or seem less concerned about their appearance. A caregiver can provide gentle assistance with getting dressed and maintaining personal hygiene, helping your parent feel more comfortable and confident.
They Seem Confused or Forget Important Things
If your parent is forgetting to turn off the stove, missing appointments, or losing track of time, this could be a sign they need more support. Memory problems can lead to dangerous situations, like leaving doors unlocked or forgetting to pay bills. A caregiver can provide reminders and guidance to keep them on schedule and ensure their home remains safe.
If you or an aging loved one are considering In-Home Care in North Las Vegas, NV, please contact the caring staff at Compassion Crest Home Care today at (702) 385-0920
Compassion Crest Home Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Las Vegas, NV, and the surrounding areas.
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