How to Know It’s Time to Hire In-Home Care

Deciding when to bring in professional in-home care for an aging loved one can be a difficult decision. As our loved ones age, their needs can change in ways that may not always be obvious. Family caregivers often find themselves balancing daily responsibilities with providing the care that seniors need, which can lead to burnout or overlooked health concerns.

Whether you’re considering in-home care for a parent, spouse, or other loved one, understanding the signs that it’s time for professional assistance is crucial. In this blog, we’ll explore practical signs and real-life scenarios that may indicate it’s time to hire non-medical in-home care support.

Difficulty with Daily Activities

As we age, many of the daily tasks that were once simple can become challenging. These activities include personal hygiene (bathing, grooming), getting dressed, cooking meals, cleaning, and managing household tasks. While many seniors are able to manage some of these activities on their own, others may need extra help to complete them safely and comfortably.

Signs that your loved one may need assistance include:

• Difficulty with basic self-care, such as dressing or brushing teeth
• Trouble preparing meals or managing a healthy diet
• Inability to keep up with basic housekeeping tasks
• Increasing difficulty with transportation (driving or using public transportation)

In these cases, in-home care support can help seniors maintain their dignity and independence while ensuring that they receive the assistance they need to manage daily tasks.

Memory Loss or Cognitive Decline

Memory loss and cognitive decline are common concerns for aging individuals. While some forgetfulness is natural as people grow older, more significant memory issues, such as forgetting to take medication, missing appointments, or failing to recognize familiar faces, can be signs of something more serious. Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia can significantly impact a person’s ability to live independently.

If you’re noticing any of the following, it may be time to consider professional care:

• Forgetting important details or conversations
• Repeating questions or stories
• Difficulty remembering appointments or medication schedules
• Getting lost in familiar places or not recognizing loved ones

In-home caregivers can assist with medication management, help seniors stay on track with appointments, and provide cognitive support to help manage memory challenges.

Frequent Falls or Mobility Issues

Seniors are at a higher risk of falls, which can lead to serious injuries. Decreased strength, balance issues, or medical conditions like arthritis can affect mobility and increase the risk of falls. If you notice your loved one frequently stumbling, having difficulty getting out of a chair, or hesitating to walk, it’s important to address these mobility issues.

Signs that your loved one may need in-home care include:

• Difficulty standing or walking without support
• Increased number of falls or near-falls
• Hesitation to move around or participate in activities due to fear of falling
• Difficulty getting in and out of bed or using the bathroom

Professional caregivers are trained to assist with mobility challenges, provide fall prevention strategies, and ensure that your loved one’s environment is safe and accessible.

Social Withdrawal and Isolation

One of the most significant, yet often overlooked, signs that a senior may need help is social withdrawal. Aging adults who live alone or have difficulty engaging in social activities are at higher risk for loneliness and depression. Seniors who isolate themselves may have more trouble managing their daily care needs and may experience a decline in both physical and mental health.

If you notice:

• Your loved one spending a lot of time alone or avoiding social activities
• Increased signs of depression, such as changes in mood or appetite
• Declining interest in hobbies or interactions with family and friends

In-home care can provide much-needed companionship. Caregivers can engage in conversations, assist with activities, and encourage your loved one to participate in social or community events.

Unkempt Home or Lack of Personal Care

A sudden decline in cleanliness and personal hygiene is often a signal that a senior needs additional support. If you notice that your loved one’s home has become untidy or that they are neglecting personal grooming habits, it’s a sign they may need help with managing household chores and self-care.

Signs to look out for include:

• Unpaid bills or missed appointments
• A dirty or disorganized living environment
• A lack of interest in personal grooming (bathing, hair care, etc.)
• Poor hygiene or dirty clothing

In-home caregivers can assist with cleaning, laundry, and maintaining a tidy living space. They can also offer personal care support, such as bathing, grooming, and dressing, so that your loved one feels comfortable and well cared for.

Chronic Health Conditions Requiring Ongoing Care

Seniors with chronic health conditions often require additional care to manage their symptoms and ensure that their health remains stable. Conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure can be managed more effectively with the help of a trained caregiver who can assist with medication management, physical therapy, and daily health monitoring.

If your loved one is:

• Managing multiple chronic conditions
• Struggling to take medications correctly or on time
• Needing help with rehabilitation or physical therapy exercises

In-home caregivers provide essential support for managing chronic health conditions. They can help ensure that medications are taken properly, assist with physical therapy, and monitor vital signs to detect any changes that may require medical attention.

Caregiver Burnout in Family Members

If you are the primary caregiver for your loved one, you may feel overwhelmed by the demands of daily caregiving. Caregiver burnout is a real and serious issue, and it can affect both the caregiver and the person receiving care. If you find yourself feeling physically exhausted, emotionally drained, or unable to balance caregiving with other responsibilities, it’s important to seek support.

Signs of caregiver burnout include:

• Physical or emotional exhaustion
• Feeling resentful or frustrated
• Difficulty balancing caregiving with work or other responsibilities
• Declining physical health due to stress

Hiring professional in-home care allows family caregivers to take a step back and recharge, ensuring that both they and their loved one can thrive. Respite care provides a much-needed break and ensures that your loved one continues to receive the care they deserve.

How Touching Hearts at Home Can Help

At Touching Hearts at Home, we understand how challenging it can be to determine when to bring in professional care for your loved ones. Our compassionate team provides personalized, non-medical home care services tailored to meet the unique needs of each senior. Whether your loved one needs assistance with daily activities, medication reminders, or simply a friendly companion, we’re here to support you and your family.

If you’ve noticed any of the signs mentioned in this blog, we invite you to reach out to us to discuss how we can help. We’re dedicated to ensuring your loved one stays safe, healthy, and independent in the comfort of their own home.

Find the Care You Need Near You

Looking for more information or ready to find the right care solution for your loved one? Find a location near you and speak with one of our experts today.

Disclaimer:

Touching Hearts at Home is a non-medical home care provider. The information provided in this blog is not intended to replace medical advice. Always consult with your doctor or a healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding your loved one’s health or care needs.