As seniors age, their health and independence may deteriorate, making it difficult to manage daily chores safely. Determining if a loved one requires 24-hour home care is critical to protecting their health. However, there are a few things for family members to look for to determine whether round-the-clock care is necessary.
Evaluation of Physical Health
Physical restrictions play a significant role in defining care needs. Seniors who have difficulty moving about, fall frequently, or suffer from chronic conditions such as Parkinson’s, dementia, or heart disease may require 24-hour care. Signs that they need more assistance could include difficulty walking and transferring from one position to the next, such as moving between chairs or transferring from the bed to standing. Additionally, if loved ones notice unexplained bruises or injuries from falls, or changes in weight, it might be a good idea to assess the situation further. Finally, having difficulty managing medications, which could lead to missed doses or worse, is another clear sign that seniors need more help.
Assessing Cognitive Decline
Cognitive impairments, particularly those linked to Alzheimer’s or dementia, can offer substantial safety issues. For instance, memory loss that interferes with daily activities, such as forgetting to turn off the stove or take medications, could lead to serious consequences. If family members have noticed either of these issues, or if their loved one seems confused or disoriented, even in familiar environments, an assessment may be needed to determine if they need 24-hour home care. Other signs that may indicate an issue with cognitive functioning include difficulty recognizing loved ones, repeated questions, and forgetting recent conversations.
Emotional and Mental Health Monitoring
Emotional well-being is just as important as physical health. Seniors who are isolated, worried, or depressed might benefit from ongoing care. Signs of emotional distress include withdrawal from social activities, mood fluctuations, and frequent irritation. It’s important to note that it’s normal for seniors to feel some of these things, especially if they’re going through a number of changes. However, continued issues, along with a loss of interest in hobbies or interactions, should raise a red flag. The good news is that with 24-hour home care in place, seniors gain built-in companionship and emotional support.
Observing Changes in Daily Living Activities
It’s important to evaluate a senior’s ability to execute ADLs and IADLs. ADLs include self-care skills like bathing, dressing, using the toilet, and eating without assistance. IADLs are difficult tasks that demonstrate independent living capabilities, such as managing money and making sure the bills are paid.
If a loved one is struggling to check the boxes when it comes to ADLs and IADLs, it might be time to add more support. Home care is able to assist with the ADL side of things, while family members may take on the other tasks.
Review of Recent Medical Events
A recent hospitalization, stroke, or catastrophic medical episode may signal that a senior requires additional care. For family members, this means tracking emergency department visits or hospitalizations, as well as how well their loved one is recovering from illnesses, accidents, or surgery. Also, if it appears a chronic illness is getting worse, it may be time for more comprehensive care.
Assessing whether a loved one needs 24-hour home care requires observation and evaluation of their physical, cognitive, and emotional health. If family members are concerned, it’s best to talk with the healthcare team and a home care agency to ensure they have all the details they need to make an informed decision.
Reference:
https://www.uchealth.org/today/aging-parents-what-to-do-when-parents-need-more-care
If you or an aging loved one are considering 24-hour home care in Almena, MI, please contact the caring staff at Fresh Perspective Home Care today. Call (269) 329-4717.
Fresh Perspective Home Care is a trusted non-medical senior home care provider in Kalamazoo, Portage, Mattawan, Richland, Vicksburg, Schoolcraft, Three Rivers, Gull Lake, Yorkville and Otsego, Michigan.
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