Your parents aren't outgoing. They don't love having people in their home, especially people they don't know. You realize they need help with daily activities, but you worry that home care isn't going to fit their lifestyle. Are there ways to tell if home care is right for their needs?
Their Physical Appearance Is Changing
Your mom has lost weight, but she's not trying to. Her doctor has ruled out any underlying health conditions. The fear is she isn't eating enough. Meal preparation services are helpful in a situation like this.
Your dad's body odor is noticeable. He may not shave anymore and has an unkempt appearance. With the help of caregivers, his personal care and grooming will improve.
Other things to watch include toenails that are growing too long. That can lead to pain that makes it harder to walk. Yet, it can also be more complicated for older adults to bend over or bring a foot up high enough to trim their nails properly.
If your parents are wearing dirty clothes for weeks, it could be that they're having a problem with laundry. If the laundry room is in the basement, you have to ask yourself if your parents can safely walk up and down the stairs.
They've Been Diagnosed With a Chronic Health Condition
After being diagnosed with a chronic health condition like heart disease, diabetes, or dementia, the need for help at home will arise. A family caregiver can offer support, but that's not always feasible when people are still working or raising children. Home care services are essential.
Home Maintenance and Organization Is Worsening
You've stopped by to visit your parents. There's a bill on the fridge that's marked last notice. Your parents haven't been paying their bills on time. That's a clear sign that your mom and dad need help with home management.
Other ways to tell that it's time to address their need for help include a cluttered, untidy home. You check the refrigerator and find a lot of spoiled, past-date foods. You might notice that the fridge and cupboards don't have much to offer. Your parents have canned soups and pasta but little else.
They Struggle With Daily Activities of Living
The final way to decide if your parents need home care is by looking at how well they manage daily activities of living on their own. Can they take a shower without having someone to help them turn the water on, suds up their skin, and rinse off? Can they get dressed without help?
When you're planning home care services, be sure your parents are part of the conversation. If they have say in the caregivers who come to their home, it reduces stress. Call a home care specialist with your parents' questions and get started on a care plan.
IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED ONE IS CONSIDERING home care in parrish, FL, PLEASE CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT HOME HELPERS OF BRADENTON. CALL TODAY: (941) 499-5946
