Noticing the Need for Home Care

The holiday season is an opportunity for many of us to spend some quality time with our loved ones. However, during this time, it’s possible to observe some changes in our loved ones, such as forgetfulness, weight loss, decreased social activity, or physical injuries like cuts and bruises. Such changes indicate that our loved ones might need help with their daily routine. We call this process “Noticing the Need.

It’s essential to pay close attention to your loved ones and observe any signs that may indicate they need in-home care. This could be required right away, in the near future, or a long time from now. It’s crucial to watch for indications of them needing assistance in order to make their lives easier.

As people grow older and develop age-related diseases, they tend to experience a decline in mobility and cognition. Dr. Lewis A. Lipsitz, a geriatrician and professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, identifies these as the two most commonly occurring issues. To help you understand these issues better, let’s break them down into everyday examples.

1. Hygiene. Please pay attention to the attire of the person. Are their clothes unkempt, or do they have any stains or tears that would normally be taken care of right away? Are they using their toothbrush daily or cleaning their dentures every night? Are they maintaining good hygiene by bathing regularly?
2. Housekeeping. Is it time to give your bathtub or toilet a thorough cleaning? Have you left any food out for too long in the kitchen? Is there a considerable amount of spoiled or moldy food inside your refrigerator? A sink full of dishes might not be a problem, but if you can’t find a clean teaspoon or coffee cup, then consider hiring a home care service.
3. Memory. It’s common for everyone to have an occasional slip in their memory. However, repeatedly forgetting to turn the stove off or getting locked out of the house could be a sign of dementia. Similarly, forgetting the names, and date of birth of close friends and relatives, and asking the same question again after receiving an answer could also indicate early signs of dementia. Detecting dementia early can make a significant difference, so it’s vital to take action and seek medical advice from a physician.
4. Dexterity and balance. Many elderly people face the risk of falling due to certain physical limitations such as being unable to grasp the handrail, step over small obstacles, or maintain balance. According to the National Council on Aging, falls are the leading cause of injuries among the elderly. As a result, many seniors may develop a fear of falling which can lead to a decline in their physical and psychological well-being. They may restrict their activities and social interactions if they feel that going out is too risky. However, limiting their physical activities can result in both physical and psychological decline.
5. Socializing. Retirement can bring a lot of free time, but it can also lead to social isolation and depression due to the lack of daily interaction with colleagues. This can be especially true if your loved one is unable to participate in activities they used to enjoy, such as going to Bingo or playing bridge. Companion care can be a great solution in such cases. Caregivers can come to the house and engage in activities like playing games, assisting with hobbies, and even providing transportation to senior centers or lunch dates with friends. It’s essential to ensure that your loved one always has something to look forward to and remains socially active.