Signs It’s Time to Consider Professional Home Care for Your Loved One

Taking care of an old or sick loved one may be an extremely emotional experience. You want to offer the best support possible, but as time passes, the daily tasks can become quite overwhelming. As per Statista, a significant number of Americans wish to spend their golden years in the comfort of their own homes. 

Seventy-five percent of U.S. adults over fifty want to stay in their current homes for as long as they can. Home care and home health care are two types of home care that older individuals may need, either alone or in combination, to avoid institutional care.

This article highlights some signs that indicate you may need extra support, helping you to make well-informed decisions. Reaching out for professional home assistance can enhance your loved one’s well-being and help keep harmony in your family.

#1: Isolation and Loneliness

When you see a loved one isolating themselves and shying away from social events, it could indicate that they’re grappling with a sense of isolation. You may observe them losing interest in their favorite hobbies, becoming more withdrawn. 

You don’t have to watch your loved one get lonely. Remember, emotional health is just as crucial as physical health, and being alone for too long can lead to anxiety. In such a situation, a dependable home care agency can provide ongoing companionship, helping your loved one stay socially active and emotionally engaged. 

According to AmeriBest Home Care, the efforts by home care agencies improve mental and emotional well-being. It can lead to enhanced physical health. With this kind of caring support, your loved one can enjoy fulfilling company and regain a sense of purpose. 

#2: Frequent Falls and Mobility Issues

If you notice frequent falls or your loved one struggling to move around, these could be clear signs that they might need some professional home care. As their mobility decreases, everyday activities such as bathing, walking to the bathroom, or getting out of bed can turn into risky endeavors. 

CDC notes that every year, around 3 million visits to the emergency department are due to falls among older adults. Hospitalizations result from about 1 million of these instances. Many risk factors contribute to the majority of falls, and having someone around makes these easy to spot.

Managing safety challenges doesn’t have to be a solo effort. Professional caregivers can help with exercises, equipment, and fall prevention strategies that cater to your loved one’s unique needs. With them around, you can enjoy a sense of stability, ensuring your loved one stays comfortable and active at home.

#3: Neglecting Personal Hygiene

When your loved one starts neglecting their personal hygiene, it might be a sign that everyday tasks have become too much for them to handle. You may see them wearing the same clothes repeatedly, skipping showers, or having trouble with grooming. 

These changes aren’t deliberate; they often come from feelings of exhaustion or confusion. Professional home care can offer gentle help with bathing, dressing, and grooming, all while respecting your loved one’s dignity.

You can rest easy knowing that your loved ones’ hygiene needs are being taken care of comfortably and safely by skilled caregivers. It minimizes the chances of infections and enhances self-confidence. Your loved one can feel renewed, appreciated, and safe every day in a tidy and well-kept setting. 

#4: Cognitive Decline

When you notice that someone you care about is starting to experience memory loss or difficulty with familiar tasks, it might be an early sign of cognitive decline. According to Mayo Clinic, symptoms of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) can include challenges with memory, language, and judgment. These symptoms are more pronounced than the typical memory lapses that often come with aging.

 MCI can increase the likelihood of developing dementia from other brain-related issues.

These changes can be distressing and even scary for both them and you. As cognitive challenges become more noticeable, it can be tougher for individuals to carry out daily tasks safely and independently.

If someone is facing memory or cognitive difficulties, professional home care can deliver the personalized support they need. Your loved one can experience security, comfort, and dignity in the familiar settings of home with assistance. 

#5: Caregiver Burnout

Although caring for a loved one can be very fulfilling, it can also become a burdensome task. According to an NIH study, caregivers tend to feel more distressed than the patients they look after. If this distress goes unaddressed, it can grow significantly throughout the caregiving journey and may lead to mental health issues during times of loss. 

The emotional strain also directly impacts the quality of care that caregivers provide to their patients. If you’re experiencing persistent fatigue, irritability, or emotional exhaustion, these may be early indicators of caregiver burnout. You don’t have to take on all of the caregiving responsibilities alone. 

Professional home care can provide you with the extra support you need to recharge, recover, and restore balance in your life. One of the best ways to protect your mental health and strengthen your resilience is to divide the task. It establishes a more long-lasting caregiving arrangement for both of you.

FAQs

What is the hardest responsibility of a caregiver?

For many caregivers, the hardest part is dealing with emotional stress while balancing personal, work, and caregiving duties. It can be hard to prioritize your own needs and well-being amidst the constant demands of caring for others. The feelings of exhaustion, guilt, and persistent worry can often feel like too much to handle, making it incredibly difficult to focus on self-care.

What are the signs that dementia is getting worse?

Dementia can take a turn for the worse if you notice your loved one becoming increasingly confused. It includes forgetting familiar faces, struggling to find the right words, or neglecting their personal care. You can also observe that they require assistance with everyday chores. Incontinence, swallowing difficulties, and loss of movement are further advanced symptoms to be aware of. It indicates that they need additional support.

Why is home care better than sending a senior to a nursing home?

Seniors who receive home care are allowed to maintain their accustomed surroundings, which promotes comfort, independence, and customized daily routines. It often means they receive dedicated attention, enjoy more family involvement, and experience improved emotional health. Staying at home can also help combat feelings of loneliness and is typically more affordable than moving into a nursing home.

Recognizing when your loved one might need professional home care is both a compassionate and wise decision. For your family, choosing home care can be a significant transition. It allows your loved one to stay in a familiar environment, where they can receive specialized care and tailored assistance. 

With professional caregivers, their quality of life improves, and they also gain the comfort and support to concentrate on what’s really important. It includes nurturing emotional bonds, enjoying peace of mind, and making the most of their time together.