When a parent begins to need assistance with everyday tasks and activities, it can be difficult for adult children to know whether the time is right to seek professional caregiving assistance. As we move into 2023, there are several signs that you should look out for to determine whether your family member may be in need of additional help.
1. Decreasing Mobility
Decreasing mobility is one of the most obvious signs that your parent may need professional caregiving assistance. If they are having difficulty with activities such as walking, getting out of bed or a chair, or even standing up from sitting positions, these can all be indications that they may need more support at home to help with safety and independence.
2. Memory Loss
If you do not see your senior loved one often, memory loss may not be apparent at first. However, forgetting names, dates, and appointments, or struggling to remember whether they have completed daily tasks like bathing or taking medication, could indicate that your senior loved one is in need of more help at home. A caregiver can help provide vital reminders and even assist with many of those activities.
3. Unhealthy Eating Habits
If your parent is having difficulty preparing meals for themselves or eating unhealthy foods due to a lack of motivation, it may be time to consider professional caregiving assistance. A caregiver can help ensure that your parent is getting the proper nutrition on a daily basis, including preparing meals or picking them up. A caregiver may also help with shopping and other basic tasks that may prove too much for your loved one.
4. Difficulty Managing Medications
Managing medications can be difficult for seniors, especially if they have a complex medication regimen or are prone to forgetting. If your parent is having difficulty remembering to take their medications on time and in the right dosages, it may be beneficial to hire a caregiver who can provide reminders and help them keep track of their medicines. Often, you may notice that medication management has grown difficult because your parent starts to struggle with medical conditions that were once managed well with medication.
5. Difficulty Performing Daily Tasks
There are a lot of daily tasks that go into keeping the average household running smoothly. When your parent can no longer keep up with laundry, cooking, and basic housekeeping, a professional caregiver can help take care of those tasks.
6. Social Isolation and Withdrawal
According to the CDC, as many as a quarter of seniors are socially isolated. As they age, seniors may have more trouble staying socially connected. It may be harder for them to get out of the house, especially if they can no longer drive. A caregiver can provide companionship, help them stay active in the community, and encourage social interaction with others.
Caregiving Assistance for Seniors in the Dallas Area
If you think that your parent in Dallas, Garland, Mesquite, Rowlett, or Balch Springs may need professional caregiving assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out to Senior Helpers East Dallas. We are a team of experienced and qualified caregivers who are dedicated to providing the best possible care for your loved ones. Contact us to learn more.