by admin
As people age, mental and physical abilities may regress. Even a perfectly able senior can experience mental or physical decline and the effects can be gradual or sudden. For many, senior home care can be the answer. But knowing the warning signs for seniors in decline is not always apparent to those who do not know what to look for and often seniors can not see it themselves, or are unwilling to come forward on their own and seek help. So if you are a friend or family member of a senior, or are a senior yourself, here are some the warning signs that help may be needed.
One sign that a senior might need senior home care is forgetfulness in tasks around the house. These signs may include leaving the house without locking the door, leaving the stove, oven, or other appliances on when not in use, losing personal items such as keys, wallet, or phone, or forgetting to put out trash for collection. Not keeping the home or yard tidy, uncollected mail or newspapers, or inability to properly care for a pet are also signs that a senior may need assistance.
A senior that has issues taking care of their financial affairs may also be exhibiting signs they may benefit from senior home care. Losing money, checkbooks or other documents, leaving money lying around unsecured around the house, non-payment of bills, and not getting to the bank for necessary transactions are all things to look for.
If a senior has shown less attentiveness to their own care, this may also signal the need for additional assistance. Less attention to their personal grooming, not having their clothes laundered frequently enough, missing scheduled medical appointments, not dressing appropriately for the weather or other situations, not taking medications, weight loss due to lack of necessary dietary consideration, and having excess spoiled food in the refrigerator can all be causes for concern.
Social withdrawal or isolation are also signs to be aware of. Things to look for here include loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, not wanting to attend events or holidays they previously frequented, not wanting to entertain company or visit friends or loved ones, and loss of personal contact with those close to them.
If a senior has problems with tasks outside of the home such as getting lost frequently, forgetting where they live, unsafe driving ability, or aimless wandering around the neighborhood, they might need to have assistance provided to them as well.
If you or someone in your family are exhibiting some of these traits, it may be time to talk to the about at-home care services. Some people may be very stubborn or steadfast in their denial of needing help. It is important for families to communicate that they are concerned for their well-being and stress that home care can help them keep an acceptable standard of livelihood while maintaining a certain level of independence.
If you are interested in learning more about senior home care it is advisable consult with a physician for any resources and information they can provide. Also, there are many resources online for information and agencies and people offering their services. Make sure to thoroughly research your options before putting a care plan into place.