The decision to invest in senior care services is incredibly important, and it’s crucial that you don’t wait any longer than necessary. Too many family members think they can manage their loved one’s condition on their own or simply don’t recognize the severity of the issue. By waiting, you risk the senior’s health deteriorating unnecessarily and increasing your own stress levels to an unmanageable degree. Luckily, there are certain signs you can look for that will indicate when it’s time to seek specialized senior care services.
Chronic Health Conditions
If your senior loved one has a chronic health condition, especially one as serious as Alzheimer’s or dementia, they could benefit from in-home senior care as soon as possible. Our caregivers are trained to handle a wide range of health issues and ensure that seniors are living safely and comfortably with their condition. For seniors with Alzheimer’s or other memory-related issues, remembering to take medications, do laundry, or pay bills can be difficult. Our caregivers can help with these daily tasks and should be enlisted immediately after you notice warning signs.
Your Own Stress
One of the easiest ways to tell if it’s time for senior care services is by monitoring your own level of stress. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your caregiving responsibilities, and are often concerned you’re not able to provide the level of care your loved one deserves, it’s probably time to hire a professional. Many caregivers lack specific training and expertise so it can be a truly heavy and daunting responsibility. When your focus is regularly on your loved one, making sure they’re safe, comfortable, and happy, you’re probably neglecting your own social life, health, or career, and a fatigued caregiver isn’t effective. If you’re feeling drained and overwhelmed, let the senior home care professionals take some of the weight off your shoulders.
Difficulty Maintaining their Home
If your loved one usually keeps a relatively neat and organized home but you’ve noticed an accumulation of dust, unopened mail, or other clutter, it could be a sign that they’re unable to take care of themselves. Forgetfulness, or a lack of energy to perform basic tasks, is a symptom of not only old age but also more serious conditions. Make sure you look outside, too. If you notice flowers clearly in need of water, or dead, untrimmed grass, it could be another sign of lethargy or a lapse in memory.
Reclusiveness
As people age, their social circles dwindle naturally. But if your loved one has become more isolated than usual, rarely going out or speaking with friends, a caregiver can help. Social interaction is important for a healthy, stimulated mind, and having a regular caregiver can give your loved one a companion to talk to, play games with, and help forge a meaningful connection.
If your loved one fits any of these criteria, and you think they could benefit from senior care services, reach out to Senior Helpers today.