For seniors, admitting the need for help, such as in-home care, can be difficult. Your senior loved one might feel that accepting help means a loss of their independence, but as seniors age, there comes a time when they need a little extra help. So how do you know when it's time for in-home care? Consult the guide below for a list of signs. 

How to Know When Your Loved One Requires Elderly Care

1. Changes in Physical Appearance

If you notice your senior loved one is wearing the same outfit for several days at a time, or if they've lost a significant amount of weight, it can indicate poor eating or bathing habits. These types of changes can indicate that your loved one is not caring for themselves properly.

It may be that they're forgetting routine tasks such as showering or preparing meals, or that they're not physically able to do it. Regardless, if you notice a decline in their health or appearance, it may be time to have a conversation about home assistance.

2. Neglecting Household Duties

If your loved one typically kept a tidy home and a well-manicured lawn, signs of slipping, such as excess laundry, unvacuumed rugs, or weeds growing in the rose garden, can be an early indication that your loved one has reached a state of dependency.

Additional signs, such as bills piling up or utilities being shut off, can also provide clues that your loved one is forgetting to take care of basic household responsibilities and that they can benefit from an in-home care provider. 

3. Signs of Injury

Falls are a constant concern for aging seniors, especially those who live alone. That is because slip and fall accidents are the leading cause of injury and death among individuals over the age of 65, a risk that increases with age. Common signs of falls include sprains, bruises, or abrasions.

If you notice these injuries, ask your loved one how it happened and use it as an opportunity to discuss whether or not professional care can help prevent future falls.

When your loved one shows signs of dependency, reach out to the compassionate team at Polish Helping Hands in Unionville, CT. Since 1998, their skilled and trained caregivers have supported the local community by providing senior care services, including assistance with bathing, eating, household chores, cooking, and companionship. Call (860) 404-0499 to schedule a consultation or visit their website to learn more about their in-home care services.