Deciding if and when your elderly loved one needs more day to day help – whether that be in-home care or a move to an assisted living facility – can be difficult. You want the very best for your loved one, but you also understand that they want to maintain as much independence as possible.
There are many different signs that can represent a need for extra help around the home, and here are a few of the most common signs that can help you realize it is time to look into assisted living:
Personal Appearance
Noticeable weight loss and weight gain can both be signs that your loved one needs some extra assistance, whether it is help getting to the grocery store or assistance preparing healthy meals.
Unsteadiness on the feet and increased fragility should also be taken note of. Falls are a big safety concern for seniors and if your loved one is having trouble getting around the house, extra help may be a welcome addition. In-home care and assisted living not only reduce the possibility of a fall, but they also ensure there will be someone there to call for help if an accident does occur.
State of Home
On top of reviewing your loved one’s personal appearance, take a look around their home as well. Physical limitations may prevent them from keeping their space as tidy as they typically would, and simply hiring a housecleaning service can be a great help.
Clutter on the floors can easily become a tripping hazard, and a disheveled home should especially be made note of if your loved one has always been a tidy person.
Health History
A recent fall, the worsening of a chronic health condition and a difficulty recovering from an illness are all signs that your loved one can use some extra care. Having someone check in with your loved one on a daily basis will ease your worries and help to ensure they are taking their medicine properly.
Social Connections
Active friendships and weekly outings are a great way to keep your spirits up as you age, and if your loved one is spending more and more time alone, they may be fighting depression or struggling to get around on their own. In-home care services and assisted living will not only provide your loved one with the help they need to accomplish day to day tasks safely, but they can also provide the daily human contact and support needed to keep your loved one positive and social.
Finances
Taking a peek at your loved one’s finances can tell you a lot about their current health. Difficulty managing finances is a common first sign of dementia, and letters from banks and creditors are a red flag for missed payments.
A little bit of extra help can make a huge difference in your loved one’s life, and if you are considering in-home care or assisted living, you may want to look into home medical equipment as well.
From bathroom safety products to daily living aids, walkers and wheelchairs, BEK Medical offers a wide array of items that will help your loved one maintain a safe and independent lifestyle. Shop with us online or contact us by phone at 915-599-1129 to work with a representative to find the right products to suit your specific needs.
