Self-Care Concerns That Could Indicate The Need For In-Home Senior Care
ShareThe decision to enlist the help of an in-home care professional for your loved one is often a challenge. On the one hand, your loved one is well enough to stay home alone, but how well are they able to meet all their needs? If your family is struggling to decide whether or not extra care is necessary, there are some self-care red flags you should look for that can help you make your decision.
Forgetting Financial Obligations
If your loved one was once an excellent steward over their money but suddenly seems to have financial challenges, this behavior is worth paying attention to. For example, your loved one's utilities might be shut off or you might notice a pile of past-due notices when you visit. Unless their financial situation has changed, this behavior often means that they have forgotten to pay attention to their finances or don't have the strength to do so.
Poor Hygiene and Housekeeping Practices
A lack of attention to their hygiene and housekeeping is another red flag. This type of situation is often the result of limited mobility, in that they don't have the strength, energy, or balance to get into the shower or sweep or vacuum. In-home care providers work with their clients to help maintain safe hygiene practices and often provide light housekeeping services in the home.
Less Social Involvement
If your loved one is not as socially involved as they once were, this behavior could indicate a mobility concern, forgetfulness, or even depression. All of these issues have an impact on your loved one's overall health and should never be ignored. If your loved one has a set schedule, such as bingo every Wednesday, pay attention to how many times he or she misses the event to see if there is a pattern.
Added Health Concerns
When an individual begins to experience added health concerns, the behavior is a cause for concern. For example, if your loved one has diabetes but is not taking their medication or had to be hospitalized for dehydration, these types of incidents mean that they are not properly taking care of themselves. Bring someone in the home to monitor their health, ensure they take their medication, and encourage them to follow a healthy diet.
If you notice any concerning behavior with your loved one, it's always best to have the extra care of an in-home care specialist to give you greater peace of mind.
If you need more information about in-home care services, contact a nursing home in your area.