How do we as loved ones know when it’s time to think about in-home senior care? Oxnard, CA seniors are living more independent lives than ever, but there is no avoiding the fact that people’s physical and mental health will eventually deteriorate as they continue aging. At this point, families may think the only option is to search for “elderly homes near me.” Oxnard, CA families do have other options that allow their aging loved ones to stay at home, though, which can help ease this decision. So, the next question is: how do you know when the time is right to consider in-home senior care? The following information should help you spot the signs.
Changes in Personal Appearance
When older people start neglecting their personal hygiene, it is often a sign that they require elderly caregiving services. Oxnard, CA families should be on the lookout for deviation from loved ones’ normal routines. If an elderly loved is wearing the same dirty clothes all the time or smell like they haven’t showered in days, for example, those are definite red flags.
Decline in Household Maintenance
It’s normal for older people to find it more difficult to do the things they used to do easily, including everyday chores around the house. There’s no need for immediate alarm if your loved one’s home is not as perfectly tidy as it used to be, but if the clutter and lack of hygiene has reached a dangerous level then it’s time to act.
Failure to Remember Medications
Memory decline is one of the most common mental changes that people experience as they age. It isn’t always a sign of dementia or Alzheimer’s, but it is always dangerous when it leads to forgetting to take medications. If this has started happening and family members can’t be there every day for reminders, then it’s time to consider elderly assisted living. Oxnard, CA families can rest assured their older loved ones are safely taking all medications and leading a healthy routine with a friendly caregiver visiting regularly.
Inadequate Nutrition
Have you noticed your older loved one is struggling to keep fresh food in the house or prepare home-cooked meals? Is your elderly loved one losing weight or refusing to eat? A skilled caregiver can help make sure your loved one is able to plans meals and get the groceries they need, and even prepare the meal and join with them for a pleasant mealtime. Nutrition assistance and other caregiving services are available for individuals as well as couples.
Subtle Changes in Behavior
Sometimes the signs are not as obvious as forgetting to shower for days at a time or losing massive amounts of weight. Maybe it’s finding that the mail is piling up every time you visit mom and dad. Or maybe your grandparent who used to have a meticulous appearance isn’t bothering to do their hair anymore now that they’re living alone. While these changes aren’t as dramatic as some of the abovementioned changes in appearance and household cleaning, you know your loved one and you should know if their new behavior seems out of character.
Unexplained Bruising. There can be many reasons why people have bruises on their body, but if you’re frequently finding bruises on an elderly loved one that they aren’t able to explain, then it’s probably a sign that they are having difficulties with mobility. When slips and falls become more common, it’s definitely a sign that your aging family member needs some help to live safely and comfortably at home.
If it’s time to invest in senior home care, Home Instead’s team of trained, screened, and bonded CAREGivers can help. Contact us today to learn more about your options and discuss a customizable care plan that suits your family’s current and evolving needs.
