As our loved ones grow older, their need for assistance and support may become increasingly apparent. While some of them experience a sudden need for help, others may exhibit more subtle signs that gradually indicate a need for additional assistance. For this reason, adult children often struggle to recognize these signs and determine when to step in with senior home care in Pacific Palisades and the area.
In the following blog, we’ll explore the common indicators that suggest your elderly parents might need extra help at home, highlighting what to look out for and what you can do to help them.
What is the best way to tell if an elderly person needs help?
Many seniors wish to remain independent for as long as possible to maintain control over their lives. In most cases, they hide or downplay their problems until a serious injury or abrupt decline in health makes it obvious that they need help.
Here are some common indicators that an elderly individual may require an increased level of care:
- Changes in personal hygiene & grooming
A decline in personal hygiene and grooming can be one of the first indicators that your elderly loved one needs some more assistance. If you notice they’re neglecting their basic self-care, such as bathing, brushing their teeth, or wearing clean clothes, it may be time to consider additional support.
- A decline in mobility & balance
As we age, keeping our balance and mobility can become increasingly difficult. You may notice that your loved one is having difficulty walking, navigating stairs, or getting in and out of chairs, which may require further assistance to prevent falls and ensure their safety.
- Unexplained weight loss or changes in appetite
Unexplained weight loss or changes in appetite can be a sign that an elderly person is not getting the nutrition they need. Whether your loved one is skipping meals, struggling to prepare meals, or simply losing weight, it may be time to explore options for meal assistance or in-home support.
- Difficulty managing medications
Proper medication management is crucial for long-term health, particularly for elderly patients with chronic conditions. In case your aging parent or other family member has trouble remembering to take their medications, mistaking dosages, or suffering adverse effects, you should help them stay on top of their medication regimen.
- Unkempt living environment
Seniors who live in a cluttered or unkempt environment may be struggling with home maintenance. If you notice piles of unopened mail, dirty dishes, or dirt and dust buildup, consider offering additional support with housekeeping tasks.
- Social isolation & withdrawal
Social isolation and withdrawal are symptoms of both physical and emotional problems among the elderly. If your loved one is no longer participating in activities they once enjoyed or avoiding social interactions, you should give them more support so they can remain active and involved in their community.
- Confusion & memory issues
Cognitive decline, including memory loss and confusion, can challenge seniors to manage their daily tasks and routines. If your loved one is frequently disoriented, forgetful, or incapable of decision-making, they may need additional assistance to remain self-sufficient.
Where in Pacific Palisades and the surrounding area can I find expert senior home care?
Choosing the right care for your senior loved one can be a challenging and time-consuming endeavor. That’s why we can refer caregivers who offer a wide range of services to meet your unique needs. Whether you need someone who can help chronically ill people live better lives, or perhaps you’d like to know more about a caregiver’s role in fall prevention, A Better Way in Home Care is the one to call. What’s best, we thoroughly vet every caretaker we recommend. We are here to help you no matter where in Pacific Palisades you live. Give us a call today!
