To decide whether your loved one may need in-home senior care, first, you should know exactly what in-home senior care means. Senior care that is provided in-home is a service that allows seniors to age in place from the comfort of their own home for as long as possible, rather than being placed in a facility. This type of service can be provided on pre-determined days and times, or it can be 24/7 around-the-clock care.

The types of services that come with in-home senior care range widely:

  • Non-medical personal care assistance (bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring, ambulation, grooming) to instrumental activities
  • Help maintain independence (running errands, cooking, cleaning, laundry etc.)
  • Socialization (providing companionship)
  • Medical assistance (something Home Care Assistance does not provide)
  • Premier home care agencies also can help with quality-of-life focus on holistic care, wellness, and mental stimulation.

But one of the big questions we are often faced with is, how do we know when our loved ones need in-home senior care?

Let’s take a look at a few of the big signs to watch for:

Recent Accidents or Worsening Health Conditions

Has your loved one recently taken a fall or had a medical scare? Or maybe they even got into a small fender bender out driving? Accidents can happen, but the older loved ones get, the higher the chances are they could happen again.

Forgetfulness

Does your loved one forget to open their mail frequently? Maybe they forget where their home is on the way back from the grocery store? Forgetfulness is a big reason for having someone checking in more frequently is helpful.

Not Leaving the House

If your loved one hasn’t been leaving the house as often – or it has been several days at a time – this could be because they are afraid to drive themselves or use public transportation.

Energy Levels and Interests

How is your loved one’s energy? If they seem to have low-energy or appear to be losing interest in their favorite activities and hobbies, these could be signs of depression, and they may need someone to socialize with more often.

Changes in Cleanliness and Organization

Next time you visit your loved one, take a moment to notice their appearance – Are they clean? Are their clothes clean? Look around the home, too. Are all appliances in working order? Is the home cluttered or disorganized?

Learn more about in-home senior care by contacting Home Care Assistance of Greater Burlington. We pride ourselves in allowing your loved one the ability to age in place. We can help determine what might be the best outcome for your loved one.

GET IN TOUCH WITH US