Independence is something that just about every adult values. Starting in childhood, we want to take care of ourselves and make our own decisions. But, as we get older, we sometimes need more assistance than we used to. Independence starts to become something we enjoy less than we have in many years.
Aging parents sometimes need help at home. Sometimes family members can step in and lend a helping hand, and sometimes outside help is needed. How can you tell when your parents need assistance at home? Here are seven signs you can look for that will give you clues that they could use some help.
1. Their Home Looks Cluttered and Dirty
As it becomes increasingly difficult for your parents to do everyday household tasks, order and cleanliness can start to suffer. Declining eyesight and mobility make it difficult to see all of the areas needing cleaning, and they can find it difficult to bend over in some instances. As clutter accumulates, the risk of them tripping and falling over something increases.
2. Their Eating Habits Have Changed
Are you noticing fewer fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats and seeing more boxed foods than ever before? Aging adults sometimes find it increasingly difficult to drive to the market and navigate around once they get inside. It’s a cause for concern when eating habits change. Talk with them about it, especially if you notice they’ve lost considerable weight.
3. There’s a Pile of Unpaid Bills
Unpaid bills are a red flag. It may be that they’re having some financial difficulties, or the pile may be growing because of memory problems, early dementia, or disorganization. Offer assistance sorting the bills out and getting them paid on time to keep house payments, taxes, and utility bills from becoming delinquent.
4. They’re Skipping Taking Their Medication
Remembering to take their meds or taking them too often is a warning sign that should be heeded. By not taking their meds, they risk a decline in their health, which can lead to the development of other illnesses. For example, failure to take blood pressure medication regularly could lead to stroke if their blood pressure becomes dangerously elevated. And taking too much medication can lead to disastrous consequences. You can help by setting up pillboxes for them, so they know what to take each day.
5. Personal Hygiene is Declining
If you’ve noticed a decline in your loved one’s personal cleanliness and grooming, you may need caregiving assistance. Your parent may be afraid of slipping and falling in the shower or tub, or they may be forgetting their hygiene routine.
6. Unexplained Bruises
Your aging parent may be having trouble with their balance and mobility and are afraid to admit it. If you see bumps and bruises on their body more frequently, it may be a sign to bring in outside help.
7. Exhibiting Signs of Depression
If your loved one is isolating or staying in their bedroom and missing outings with family and friends, they may be suffering from depression. If you believe that’s the case, have them treated by a professional as soon as possible.
How Help at Home Can Assist
The safety and well-being of your parents can be significant concerns as they age. If you’re noticing some of these warning signs and feel you need some outside help, call Help at Home, and we’ll conduct an in-home assessment to help you determine if your loved one could use some help.
Help at Home is one of the oldest and most reliable home care agencies in Chevy Chase, Maryland. Our practitioners provide the best home care services and cater to the specific needs of each client. We bring high-quality care right to your front door so that your loved one can continue living in an environment that is comfortable and familiar to them.
Contact us today by completing the inquiry form or calling us at (301) 654-6789. You’ll receive personalized attention on your very first call.
