Broaching the topic of care with a senior is tricky for anyone, especially a family member. But sometimes, it becomes apparent that your senior loved one needs a little extra help around the house. Often, however, it is difficult for seniors to admit that they need help. They see carers as infringing on their independence. And they have to open up their private lives to a stranger. It can all seem daunting. But it’s all for a good cause. With help, your loved one can look forward to a higher quality of life. And they will be able to retain their independence for longer.
The following are important signs your loved one needs a carer.
Spoiled Food In The Fridge
Often as people get older, their memories start to fail. And that means that they are less able to plan what to eat. As a result, food can linger in the fridge for weeks, even months, before being thrown away. Home caregiver services can help seniors organise and rotate their food so they don’t waste so much.
Missing Appointments
Elderly people who are struggling often miss key appointments. There are usually a couple of reasons for this. One is that they simply forget. The other is that they don’t feel confident enough (or can’t) travel out of the house by themselves.
Difficulty Getting Up
As people get older, they tend to lose muscle mass in their lower extremities. And this can have a significant impact on their ability to get out of a seated position. One of the most important capacities that a person has is the capacity to stand up. But all too often, seniors lose this capability. If they do, it’s time that they had the help of a full-time carer. Full-time carers are trained in how to use equipment that helps seniors stand up. And they can reduce the chances of a fall.
Infrequent Showering
Getting in and out of the shower can be an ordeal for an elderly person. There’s a high risk of falling or slipping on wet tiles. And it can be physically hard to get in and out of a shower or bath. For these reasons, seniors may avoid the bathroom to the detriment of their personal hygiene. Poor personal hygiene is not ideal. And if elderly people tend to sit in the same position for extended periods of time, it can lead to infection. Carers, of course, can take care of personal hygiene. With the help of a carer, your senior can be washed in a sitting position.
Forgetting To Take Medications
One of the biggest roles of a carer is to remind seniors to take their medications. All too often, seniors will forget, and this can disrupt their treatment regimen. Carers organise pill boxes and record when medication has been administered.
Unopened Mail
Lastly, another telltale sign that your elderly loved one needs help is unopened mail. Mail may remain unopened if your senior finds it hard to walk to the mailbox. Or it could be because they find it hard to bend down. Again, carers can help seniors collect and open mail.
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