As your relatives grow older, there may be some discussion about whether they can continue living in their homes or if they will need elderly care. Nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and in-home care can help seniors manage their day-to-day activities and make life more comfortable if they can’t live alone. If you are wondering if it’s time to seek senior services for your aging relative, below are a few signs to consider.

How to Tell It’s Time to Seek Elderly Care for Your Relative

1. Safety

One of the most common reasons why seniors need elderly care is safety. If they are unsafe in their home alone, whether it is from dementia or limited mobility and the likelihood of slip-and-fall accidents, having someone nearby will significantly increase your aging relative’s safety. They will be able to closely monitor your loved one and deliver them medical care if a problem arises. 

2. Additional Care Requirements

If your relative needs reasonable assistance, such as help getting to and from a doctor’s appointment or filling prescriptions, you and other family members could assist them. However, if their needs are beyond your abilities, they may need senior care services by skilled professionals who can help them throughout the day. They can take your loved one grocery shopping and ensure they have companionship throughout the day if you or your family members are at work. 

3. Chronic Illness

Chronic health problems sometimes worsen over time. Though their care needs may have been manageable at one point in time, their conditions, such as diabetes, Alzheimer's, or arthritis may escalate out of your control. Home nurses will have more training to handle their health issues, and they know how to keep their clients comfortable, properly medicated, and healthy.

4. Growing Aggression

When some people age, they develop dementia. An unfortunate effect of this mental condition is increased aggression. Whether physical or verbal, the senior’s growing volatile state could be stressful to family members or caregivers who try to help them. If they reach that stage, they may need elderly care to keep them from being a danger to themselves and others. 

If your loved one requires elderly care, reach out to the caring staff at Hands Across St. Louis. Based out of St. Louis, MO, this senior care agency provides home health care services for aging seniors and disabled residents. To speak with a helpful staff member about their services, call (314) 389-2874 today.