Most individuals don't like to think about aging and planning for in-home care, but having a basic plan in place helps prepare your loved one for a comfortable and independent life. For instance, being aware of the signs and symptoms of aging difficulties is one approach. Seeking help becomes unavoidable as you age, and sometimes, it becomes difficult to ask for it.

Signs that Older Adults Need Home Care Services

1. Increased Forgetfulness & Wandering

An increase in forgetfulness and memory loss is one of the first symptoms showing that your loved one may not be able to complete their daily activities.

For those with dementia, wandering or becoming lost is a common symptom. The following are some common warning indicators to keep an eye out for:

• Returning home later than normal from a regular walk or drive
• Losing track of how to get to familiar locations
• Discussion about previous obligations, such as going to work
• Even when at home, attempting or desiring to "go home."
• Becoming agitated, pacing, or repeating movements

2. Behavioral Changes

Another clue that your loved one may require additional care at home is a change in behavior.

The following are observable changes in behavior to be on the lookout for:

• Aggression
• Exacerbation of paranoia
• Delusions
• Hallucinations
• Depression

It may be unpleasant, but it might be necessary to have a conversation with your loved ones to check on them. Sometimes asking them if they're okay and providing home care options to make their everyday lives easier can go a long way.

3. Poor Personal Hygiene

The way your loved one handles their hygiene might give you a lot of clues about whether they are struggling with daily life. In order to aid your loved ones with their care requirements, a caregiver and companion may be of great assistance. Take a minute to sit down with your loved one if you've noticed a drop in their hygiene, properly express your worries, and suggest solutions to increase hygiene.

4. Unsteady Mobility

Your senior can fall for various reasons, including physical weakness, poor vision, unbalance, prescription side effects, vitamin D insufficiency, and environmental dangers. In reality, according to the CDC, 3 million senior citizens are admitted to hospitals each year as a result of falls, the majority of which result in hip fractures or brain injuries. Ensure that your senior's home is free of hazards, and, if necessary, look for equipment and assistance to help them keep their balance while walking.

5. Major Health Concerns

If your loved one has a chronic condition, they might need to visit the hospital or doctor’s office frequently. Seniors who have chronic ailments are typically more susceptible to developing new conditions. These elders may benefit from additional care and attention from family members or professional services because they are at higher risk.

6. Withdrawal or Isolation

It has been demonstrated that maintaining social connections with family and friends is good for the mind and body. Being socially active can help combat feelings of isolation, improve our memory and cognitive abilities, and generally make us happier and healthier. Spend some time with your loved one and discuss the possibility of companion home care.

• There are a few withdrawal symptoms to watch out for:
• Having trouble starting or finishing simple chores
• Struggling to find their way in the community
• Connecting with others and communication can be more challenging.

Options for Caregiving Services and How They Help Older Adults

There are several services provided when it comes to helping older adults at their convenience. Our caregivers are well trained to provide customized services such as:

1. Respite Care

Respite care services for the elderly are targeted at supporting and maintaining the primary caregiving relationship by providing temporary care to elderly family members.

2. Medication and Safety

As we age, forgetting medication with the correct dosage is common. Our elderly tend to lose their senses of sight, touch, hearing, and smell tend to decline. Our physical abilities are reduced, and we develop a slower reaction time. Our Complimentary In-Home Assessment allows us to address the immediate dangers facing your loved one. 

3. Alzheimer’s & Dementia

People with Alzheimer's need high-level care to preserve and maintain their safety and well-being. In-home care can provide the care they need to live in the comfort of their own home.   

4. Physical Assistance & Homemaking

As we age, our body doesn’t always function like it used to. Independence can be directly related to mobility. Whether it’s transferring, wheelchair assistance, or light housekeeping, caregivers can help.

See Also: What are Caregiver Services and How to Choose the Right Caregiver

What is Newport Home Care’s goal?

Our mission is to assist you and your senior loved ones in choosing the in-home care that is best for you. Additionally, we want to ensure that your loved one receives the necessary care to maintain their daily routines, the general quality of life, and independence.

If you or your loved ones are showing any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s the right time to look for in-home care services for senior adults. Contact us or visit our website to discuss how Newport home care can support your loved one.