Learn key indicators that can help identify when a senior in Edina may require in-home assistance.
As our parents age, it's natural for them to need a little extra help to remain independent. But how do you know when it's time to consider in-home care? While every senior is different, there are some common signs that may indicate a need for additional support. As adult children, it can be challenging to recognize when our parents or elderly loved ones require assistance in, and around the home. Studies show that approximately 70% of seniors will require some form of long-term care in their lifetime. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the most common signs that your senior loved one may need in-home care to remain as independent as possible.
Difficulty with daily tasks
If you notice your elderly loved one is struggling with basic daily tasks, such as preparing meals, taking medication, incontinence, or bathing, it could be time to consider in-home care. For seniors in Edina who are living alone, difficulty with these activities of daily living can lead to other problems and potentially health issues. Bringing in the help of a professional in-home care agency can help ensure they maintain a healthy and safe lifestyle. In addition to assisting with daily tasks, a professional caregiver can also provide companionship and emotional support, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation.
They can engage in meaningful conversations, participate in activities together, and provide a sense of security and reassurance for your loved one. With the support of a trustworthy in-home care agency in Edina, you can have peace of mind knowing that your elderly family member is well taken care of and their overall well-being is being prioritized.
Forgetfulness and Confusion
Some memory loss and confusion can be normal parts of the aging process, but when dementia or Alzheimer's disease is present, it can be dangerous for a senior to live alone without assistance and supervision. In fact, studies show that seniors with dementia who live at home without support are at a higher risk of accidents and health complications. If you notice your loved one struggling with day-to-day decision making, or if they forget important things such as taking medication, in-home care can offer the support required to keep them healthy and safe.
A Fall
Falls pose a significant risk for seniors, especially those living independently. Did you know that 1 in 4 seniors aged 65 and older experiences a fall each year? If you observe that a loved one has experienced a fall, it serves as a clear indication that additional support is essential to ensure their safety and independence. Reputable in-home care agencies, such as Comfort Keepers, specialize in providing mobility assistance. This not only aids seniors in maintaining their mobility but also creates a safer living environment, effectively minimizing the risk of future falls.
Declining Health
As our loved ones age, it's natural for their health to decline. But if you notice that your senior loved one's health is rapidly deteriorating or they are struggling with a chronic condition, home care may offer the support they need.
Increased Social Isolation
Seniors living alone can become isolated and lonely, leading to depression and other mental health problems. In fact, studies show that 43% of seniors experience feelings of loneliness. Isolation can also contribute to an increased risk of cognitive decline, cardiovascular issues, and a weakened immune system. Companion care can significantly help with isolation. At Comfort Keepers, companion care focuses on social interaction and companionship, but it also includes assistance with household tasks and errands. Be it sharing a meal, engaging in a favorite hobby, or simply having a meaningful conversation, companion care can greatly enhance a senior's quality of life.
Unpaid Bills
A common but often overlooked sign that a senior may require additional help is a growing pile of unpaid bills. This may indicate difficulty in managing finances or forgetfulness, both of which can swiftly lead to serious complications like unpaid utilities, mounting debt, or even foreclosure. If you notice unattended mail, unopened envelopes, or unpaid bills when visiting your loved one in Edina, it may be time to seek professional, in-home, help.
Poorly Maintained House
If you notice that your senior loved one's home in Edina is not as clean or well-kept as it used to be, this could be a sign that they are struggling with routine maintenance and housekeeping tasks. Manifestations of a poorly maintained house can range from cluttered areas, unattended repairs, or poor sanitation. This neglect can lead to an unsafe living environment, posing a risk for accidents, and may even affect their overall health due to potential development of allergens or bacteria in the home. An in-home caregiver can assist with cleaning, organizing, and maintaining the house, ensuring not only a tidy and sanitary living space but also a safer, more comfortable environment for your loved one.
Comfort Keepers Can Help
Recognizing the signs that your senior loved one may need in-home care can be difficult, but it is essential for their wellbeing and safety. Whether it's helping with daily tasks, providing personal care support, creating opportunities for companionship, or supporting the management of health issues, in-home care provides help necessary for many seniors in Edina to remain independent and maintain their quality of life.
We provide companionship, personal care, respite care, and specialized care, such as 24-hour care, end-of-life care, in-facility care, private duty nursing, and Alzheimer's and dementia care.
To learn more about Comfort Keepers and how our in-home care services can help your elderly loved one remain independent, give us a call at (763) 273-4207.
