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9 Signs Your Loved One Needs Home Care

Writer's picture: Selena PagliaSelena Paglia

"Remember, it's a sign of strength, not weakness, to ask for help when you need it."– Michelle Obama


Caregiver with woman in wheelchair

In our early years, our caregivers lovingly built a stable and loving foundation that empowered us to grow into capable adults.

 

Yet, with the passage of time, you may notice the ones who stood steadfast in your life, such as parents or a dear relative, showing signs of slowing down. Changes in their habits, a loss of appetite, or a fading twinkle in their eye when they look your way—these can be worrying indicators of possible struggles that might necessitate support.

 

It's a natural progression to need help as we age, but acknowledging this can be difficult. Our innate drive is to care for and ensure the welfare of our close ones urges us to offer support in every possible way.

 

Concerned about an aging family member? Here are 9 signs indicating the need for home care:

 

1. Changes in Behaviour

 

Throughout our lives, we evolve and adapt, learning from our experiences and reacting differently as a result. Yet, as we enter the later stages of life, these behavioural adaptations can sometimes adversely affect our mental health and overall sense of well-being. Noticing these shifts in behaviour can be a key indicator that a loved one may require additional support at home.

 

Should you observe signs of heightened anxiety, such as frequent calls to family members seeking affirmation that everything is alright, it could be an indication that professional assistance is needed to address potential underlying health concerns. Other significant behavioural shifts to be aware of include:

 

  • Displays of aggression

  • A rise in paranoid thoughts

  • Experiencing delusions

  • Occurrences of hallucinations

  • An increase in depressive feelings

 

One specific change, known as Sundowner’s Syndrome, is particularly associated with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. This condition causes individuals to experience confusion, agitation, or disorientation towards the evening, diverging significantly from their usual demeanour and causing concern over the noticeable change in mood from morning to night.

 

Engaging in a conversation with your loved one about their well-being and discussing the possibility of home care assistance for their daily activities can be a meaningful step towards addressing these changes.

 

2. Decline in Personal Hygiene

 

Observing changes in the personal hygiene of your loved ones can serve as a significant indicator of their capability to manage daily routines.

 

During your recent visits, did you notice any alterations in their grooming habits that might suggest a decline in self-care? This could manifest as:

 

  • Noticeably stronger body odour than before

  • Neglected dental hygiene, such as unbrushed teeth

  • Hair that appears unwashed or disheveled

  • Clothing that is dirty or worn out

  • Mismatched or inappropriate footwear for the occasion or weather

 

Maintaining a neat and tidy appearance is not solely about aesthetics; it plays a crucial role in fostering self-esteem and confidence. A decline in personal grooming can lead to reduced social interaction and increased isolation, as the individual may feel uncomfortable or embarrassed to engage in outside activities or meet with others.

 

In such situations, the support of a caregiver or companion can be invaluable. They can assist with daily hygiene tasks, ensuring your loved one feels cared for and respected. If you've noticed a drop in the standard of your loved one's personal hygiene, it might be beneficial to discuss your observations with them gently and propose supportive solutions to enhance their well-being and happiness.

 

3. Forgetfulness and Wandering

 

One of the initial indicators that a loved one might be experiencing cognitive decline is a noticeable increase in forgetfulness and memory challenges. Are they overlooking to take their medications, failing to remember important dates or appointments, or struggling with simple recollections like what day it is? While forgetfulness can be a part of normal aging, it could also signal more serious health issues, such as Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.

 

Observing wandering behaviour is also crucial. If your loved one seems to lose their way more often, especially in places that were once familiar, it could be a concern. Look out for signs such as:

 

  • Late returns from what used to be routine walks or drives

  • Difficulty navigating to places they frequently visit

  • Speaking about past responsibilities as if they are current

  • Expressing a desire to "go home" when they are already there

  • Showing signs of restlessness or engaging in repetitive movements

 

Recognizing these symptoms early and consulting with a healthcare professional can be vital. A doctor's visit can help diagnose any underlying conditions. Discussing the available in-home care options can help maintain their independence, ensuring they live a safe and comfortable life at home.

 

Confused senior man in forest

4. Unkept Household Environment

 

A clean and organized home environment is not only pleasing to the eye but also contributes significantly to our mental wellness. For some, the act of cleaning is a form of stress relief that brings mental clarity, while for others, the result—an orderly space—offers a sense of calm and control. When you notice that the home of someone you care about begins to lose its tidiness, this could be an indication of deeper emotional or psychological difficulties.

 

During your next visit, take the opportunity to observe their living space for signs of neglect that may include:

 

  • Accumulation of dirty dishes

  • Safety risks, such as cluttered walkways or loose carpets

  • A refrigerator that's either empty or filled with expired items

  • Piles of unattended mail, potentially indicating financial woes or a general sense of overwhelm

  • Unpleasant odours

 

These signs may hint at specific challenges your loved one is facing. For instance, a buildup of unopened mail might suggest financial stress or a reluctance to confront certain realities, while a lack of cleanliness could be a symptom of low motivation or physical health issues that make upkeep difficult.

 

Engaging in a compassionate conversation is crucial. Listening attentively to their experiences without judgment can open the door to solutions. Letting them know about the availability of care services that can assist with everyday tasks may alleviate some of their stress, offering them a reprieve from the challenges they are facing and helping to restore balance and comfort to their living environment.

 

5. Social Isolation and Withdrawal

 

The value of social interaction for mental and physical health is well-documented. Engaging with others can alleviate feelings of solitude, enhance cognitive functions, uplift mood, and contribute to overall wellness.

 

During your recent interactions with your loved one, did they appear more withdrawn or easily annoyed? Is there a noticeable reduction in their interactions with friends and acquaintances? A significant shift in their emotional demeanor or social habits could suggest a trend towards social disengagement and seclusion, potentially setting the stage for depressive symptoms.

 

Key indicators of social withdrawal include:

 

  • Challenges in initiating or finishing simple daily activities

  • Difficulty in navigating social settings or the wider community

  • Increased trouble in communicating or connecting with people

  • Tendency to shun social interactions to evade embarrassment over a health issue

  • A preference for remaining at home, perceived as a safe haven

 

Engaging in a heartfelt discussion with your loved one about the advantages of home care companionship could be beneficial. A dedicated caregiver can not only offer friendship but also serve as a supportive pillar, invigorating your loved one's day-to-day life with more joy and equilibrium.

 

6. Elevated Fall Risk and Previous Incidents

 

As individuals age, their mobility and balance can be compromised, leading to an increased risk of falls. Such incidents are not only concerning due to the immediate injuries they may cause but also because they can significantly impact long-term mobility and independence.

 

When observing your loved one, consider whether they have experienced falls in the past or if their living environment presents hazards that could increase the likelihood of falling. Factors contributing to a higher fall risk include:

 

  • Use of medications that affect balance or cognitive functions

  • Environmental obstacles like loose rugs, poor lighting, or cluttered walkways

  • Chronic health conditions that impair strength or balance

  • Lack of assistive devices in key areas of the home, such as bathrooms or staircases

 

Preventive measures, including home modifications and physical therapy, can markedly reduce the risk of falls. Discussing the potential for incorporating such strategies into your loved one's daily routine is essential. Additionally, considering home care services can provide your loved one with the support they need to navigate their space safely and confidently, mitigating the risk of future falls and fostering a safer living environment.

 

A senior walking with their cane

7. Losing Enthusiasm for Everyday Life

 

It's natural for everyone to experience periods of low motivation, particularly during challenging times. However, as individuals age and undergo changes in energy, a lack of motivation may become a more frequent concern. It's not uncommon for seniors to gradually disengage from previously enjoyed activities, signaling a diminishing zest for life.

 

Apathy is notably prevalent among the seniors, particularly those grappling with physical, mental, or emotional health issues.

 

To gauge whether your loved one is facing such difficulties, look out for signs like:

 

  • Persistent tiredness or lack of energy

  • Challenges in managing everyday tasks

  • A noticeable difficulty in expressing or even feeling emotions

  • Problems with planning activities or resolving simple issues

 

When apathy is suspected, it's crucial to seek professional guidance from their healthcare provider for a thorough assessment and appropriate management strategies. In the meantime, encouraging your loved one to rekindle interest in past hobbies or discover new pursuits can play a significant role in enhancing their quality of life.

 

Given the demands of modern life, it can be challenging to consistently engage and motivate our senior relatives. Fortunately, a variety of support services are available to help reignite their enthusiasm and joy in life, assisting them in finding new or forgotten sources of fulfillment and happiness.

 

8. Declining Dietary Habits

 

Maintaining a nutritious diet is crucial for overall health at every stage of life, but as individuals age, there might be unintentional changes in their eating patterns.

 

Noticing significant weight fluctuations in your loved one over a brief period could be a sign of various issues, such as:

 

  • Diminished appetite leading to a reduced interest in food

  • Challenges with meal preparation, possibly due to a decline in mental abilities

  • Forgetting to make and consume meals

  • Inability to independently shop for groceries

  • A neurological condition affecting the brain's dietary control mechanisms

 

Ensuring the dietary well-being of our loved ones is important, yet managing someone else's nutrition can be more challenging than overseeing our own. Home care providers can assist with meal planning and the preparation of nutritious dishes, tailoring their services to meet the specific dietary needs of their clients.

 

If you're worried about the nutritional intake of a family member, expressing your concerns and discussing the availability of home care support for meal management can be a step towards improving their dietary habits, making sure they have access to balanced and nourishing meals. 


9. Family Caregiver Burnout

 

Caring for an aging or ill family member is a profound expression of love and commitment. However, the physical, emotional, and sometimes financial demands of caregiving can lead to burnout—a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion. Caregiver burnout not only affects the caregiver's health and well-being but also their capacity to provide effective care.

 

Signs of caregiver burnout include:

 

  • Feeling overwhelmed or constantly worried

  • Experiencing fatigue, sleeping problems, or changes in appetite

  • Losing interest in activities once found enjoyable

  • Feelings of irritability, sadness, or hopelessness

  • Developing physical symptoms such as headaches or stomach aches

 

Recognizing the signs of burnout is the first step towards making positive changes. For caregivers reaching their limits, professional home care services can offer essential support. These services not only provide relief and rest for caregivers but also ensure that the loved ones receive the compassionate and skilled care they deserve. By partnering with a trusted home care provider, like Opulife, caregivers can alleviate the pressures of caregiving, safeguarding their well-being while upholding the highest quality of life for those they care for.

 

An exhausted family caregiver

Life’s journey inevitably includes moments when we must seek support, though it can be challenging. As the years leave their imprint, our once resilient support systems, our family pillars, may quietly shoulder their needs, worried about burdening us or feeling shame. They’ve stood by us unwaveringly, and now it’s our turn to be attentive to their need for help. In the security of their own homes, they can lead lives of independence and respect with the aid of a skilled caregiver, enhancing their comfort at home. Together, we work towards enhancing their journey, affirming our commitment to their well-being by ensuring home is always a place of comfort and dignity.

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