Elders tend not to say when they feel it is time to get help. Many are frightened about the stigma and loss of independence that can come along with that type of request. After a lifetime of caring for themselves they tend to see the need of caregivers as an admittance of failure and they can lose self-respect. As loved ones of these individuals, we must navigate the muddy waters of elder care with caution. We need to be aware of the signs that it may be time to call in senior caregivers.
If you run into any of these four signs outlined below, you can take it as a strong indicator that it is time to call in the professionals.
1. Difficulty or Lack of Self-Care
One of the biggest indicators of the need for care is a decline in self-care. If you notice your loved one has started to have issues with basic self-care tasks, that is a significant red flag. Basic self-care tasks would include things like grooming, eating, bathing, dressing, dental care, etc.
Watch their appearance. If you are starting to notice a decline in care that will be one of the first signs. If someone who has always dressed very well starts to wear only ripped up pyjamas while no longer properly bathing that could be a sign they are having troubles managing themselves in the bathroom/bedroom. Losing a bunch of weight? This could be telling you they can no longer cook or feed themselves properly.
Caregivers can not only help your loved ones with self-care tasks, but htye also offer companionship to seniors. When self-care declines so can social connections as we will talk about shortly. A companion which can help with all things self-care may be just what the doctor is ordering.
2. Increased irritability
Many things can cause an increase of irritability in elders. These types of symptoms tend to stem from both physical and mental decline. Issues with health cause frustration and anger that can shine through on even the most pleasant of individuals.
If you notice an increases in irritability, make sure to investigate further. A trip to the doctor might also be a good idea. One of the most common causes for this type of behaviour is Alzheimer’s and dementia. So, it pays to look into the issue further.
3. Housekeeping is falling behind
Another change in commonality that can help point to the need for senior care is the state of the home. If there is a sudden change, or even a gradual decline in the overall ‘health’ of their yard or home, this could be a tell that your loved one is no longer up to the challenge of housekeeping. Most household chores require strength, flexibility balance, and motivation. If any of those areas are diminished, it will be apparent in the care of the home.
Watch for things that would historically not happen. Uncleaned spills, dirty laundry, overgrown grass, etc. Caregivers can help with these things that are necessary yet no longer possible for the individual to perform alone.
4. Lost Social Connections
Has the amount of time spent alone increased for your loved one? Depending on their personality, this may be another warning they need elder care. Avoiding social activities with family or friends or any other change in social habits might mean they are struggling with some of the other points outlined in this article.
It may also mean that they are having physical or mental health concerns that cause them to be uneasy or uninterested in social interaction.
Whatever the reason, if a normally social individual starts to isolate it is cause for concern. A caregiver can bring the assistance they need to ensure they feel comfortable communicating and interacting with those in their social circles. An elder care specialist also can bring an element of consistent companionship which can have tremendous psychological benefits.
Assessing and understanding the need for a caregiver can be a difficult endeavour. Our team is here to help.
If you suspect that your loved one needs or will need access to care, contact us today to learn more about how Blossoms Senior Care can help. Our trained team can help you decide whether or not it is time to get help. We will also introduce you to services Blossoms Senior Care Inc. can offer when the time comes.