It is never easy to watch a loved one struggle with everyday tasks, and bringing in help at the right time can drastically improve their quality of life. The trouble is knowing when it is time. These changes often happen gradually, and if you arrange help too early then you may spend unnecessary money and frustrate the recipient. But you do not want them to struggle alone for too long either. Here are the signs you can use to tell.
Increased Forgetfulness and Cognitive Decline
We are all forgetful sometimes, but when somebody we love is frequently forgetting names and other basic facts, repeating stories, or losing objects, this is often a sign that they will need help functioning in future. It is important to take these signs seriously and not dismiss them, as they may soon start forgetting to take medication or switch off the stove. At this point it can become dangerous, so it’s best to contact a home care services provider early.
Decline in Hygiene and Grooming
Washing infrequently, not brushing teeth or hair, and wearing the same clothes for many days can all be signs that somebody needs assistance at home. Grooming habits are not something that most people suddenly change, and certainly not for the worse, so this is a sign you can take seriously. Often, it is a sign that they are finding certain physical challenges difficult, such getting undressed or showering, but it can also be a sign of mental illnesses like depression.
Difficulty Managing Household Tasks
We often do not realise how many chores are actually required to keep our homes functioning. Paying bills, doing laundry, and cleaning dishes are just some of the tasks necessary for maintaining a pleasant living space, and it is important to seek assistance when someone you know can no longer do them. When somebody cannot take out their trash or clean, things can quickly become unhygienic, so it is best to act urgently.
Unexplained Weight Loss
A decline in weight over a fairly short period may be a sign that somebody has stopped eating properly. This can stem from forgetfulness, difficulty going shopping, or even lack of knowledge in some cases. Like the other signs on here, poor nutrition leads to even more problems later, like fatigue and decreased immunity. That is why it is essential to arrange home care early. Carers can help with shopping, meal planning, and preparation.
Changes in Mobility
Arthritis, muscle weakness, and recovering from surgery can all impair mobility to the point where everyday tasks become a painful struggle. They also increase the risk of falling, which can cause further injuries, and attempting to avoid this by living a sedentary lifestyle is not good either. If someone you love is suffering from any of these issues, or you have noticed an unexplained change in their mobility, then it is time to get them help.
Conclusion
There are many reasons why people might need help at home, and home care providers can tailor their service to the recipient’s needs. Getting them help as soon as you see serious signs like these is essential for the best outcome, because the longer they go unaided, the more likely they are to experience more problems.
