It’s not easy to admit that you need help, and it doesn’t get any easier as you grow older. If you’re worried about your parents’ health and condition as they age, it’s important to remember that there are services out there that are willing and able to help you.
It can be hard to tell when the right time is to seek additional help for your elderly parents. At Assurance Home Care, we want to help you identify some common signs that indicate it’s time to seek home care services.
Movement Difficulties
It’s not uncommon for elderly people to struggle with basic activities, such as walking up and down stairs or standing from a sitting position. However, if you’re noticing that simple movements are putting your Mom or Dad’s health at risk, it’s important to consider home care services for them. While mobility issues can be attributed to common arthritis, a lack of mobility can become a major issue if your Mom or Dad is ever in an emergency where they need to evacuate their home immediately.
Unsanitary Living Conditions
Forgetfulness is not uncommon for elderly people; in fact, we can all be forgetful sometimes. Unfortunately, forgetfulness can lead to unsanitary living conditions if it becomes a chronic issue. If, for example, your Mom or Dad forgets to take out their trash or they’re keeping food items in the fridge far past their expiration date, they may require extra help to keep their homes tidy and organized. Furthermore, if your Mom or Dad is failing or unable to take care of their dental and physical hygiene, it may be time to consider home care services.
Loss of Social Engagement
One thing to keep in mind as your parents get older is that social interaction is important. Social interaction stimulates the brain and has the ability to boost one’s mood. If your parents are refusing to interact with friends and family or are refusing to have you over to their home, consider contacting a local home care service provider for advice and suggestions.
Seclusion and isolation can be indicative of a mental or physical concern. Seniors who isolate themselves from friends and family are less likely to go out and shop for essential items or refill their medications, which can be incredibly harmful to their wellbeing. Be sure to act if it becomes a noticeable issue.
These are only a few of the signs that may indicate your parents require home care services. Remember to be caring and loving to your parents if you decide to approach them about this decision. For more information, visit our website or call Assurance home care today.
