5 Signs it May be Time for In Home Health Care

It is vital, as those we love begin to enter new stages of life, that we are able to recognize situations that may be early warning signs of trouble ahead.

Here are five signs it may be time to look into in home care options.

More and more people in their golden years are turning to In Home Health Care. This genre of private duty health care is not only for those who cannot provide for themselves, but also for those who may need just a little more help, whether in the form of running errands or assisting with household chores, companion care and medication management.

There are situations that arise that are solid indicators that it indeed may be time to look into assisting your loved one in the comfort of their own home by contacting an in home care provider and/or service.

1. Trouble with Household Chores

Admit it, as we age household chores become more difficult. When everyday household chores become more than just nuisances for your loved ones, it may be time to consider the assistance of private in home care. If you find them struggling to accomplish tasks such as sweeping, dusting, an cleaning,chances are they may enjoy having additional help around the house to tackle some of the more taxing chores.

An early warning sign of trouble with household chores is a home environment that always was clean and tidy but has recently become increasingly cluttered. Spills that aren’t wiped up, food in the refrigerator months past the expiration date, trash that isn’t removed, and piles of clutter are signs that help may be needed.

2. Limited Mobility

When we’re nestled in our favorite chair, we may not feel the need to move a muscle. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with relaxation, especially when it’s complemented by a healthy diet and an exercise routine. However, if your loved one finds it challenging to make their way up stairs or if they fear slipping in the bathtub, you may want to look into skilled nursing care.

Lack of physical activity can lead to muscle atrophy and an even more complicated situation. If your elderly parents are spending most of their hours sitting or lying down, part time or full time skilled nursing care can provide just the boost and assistance they need to enjoy outdoor activity and a better quality of life.

3. Problems Organizing Medications

Keeping up with medication times and amounts can be confusing. If you or your loved one is missing doses or experiencing frustration when it comes to understanding medications, there’s no reason for it. A unique schedule of daily or weekly visits from an RN. or LPN. to help with medications can provide the relief and peace of mind necessary, without any intrusion on daily living.

4. Decrease in Personal Care

One of the first signs that help may be needed is a marked decrease in personal care and hygiene. Often, elderly parents begin to neglect personal hygiene after a spouse or companion passes on. This may simply be a sign of loneliness or slight depression. Extra help through in home care can provide the necessary interaction that can ultimately serve two purposes; personal care assistance and a companion care- friendship that can help keep an elderly adult from sinking into isolation or a decreased will to thrive.

5. Trouble Driving

Have you noticed unexplained dents and scratches in your aging parent’s vehicle? Has an increase in traffic tickets or warnings caused concern? If your elderly parents can no longer get from point A to point B safely, they may feel embarrassed or a sense of helplessness. It may be time for help. Not only does our private in home care provide nursing assistance, but we also help with errands, without causing your parent or loved one to feel a lack of control of their life.

Accidents can happen, especially as your loved ones begin to age. Fortunately, they can easily be prevented by careful, constant awareness of any health changes that are taking place. One of the best ways to avoid a crisis situation is by considering in home care long before an emergency situation occurs.

If you’ve noticed any of the above five warning signs, don’t hesitate to give us a call. Our services can be tailored to fit your loved one’s unique needs. You’ll find that our private in home care will provide youwith peace of mind without infringing on your parent’s feelings of independence.