Signs Your Loved One Needs Help With Aging

Talking to your loved ones about their aging can be extremely difficult. It is very rare that your loved one will approach you for help when they need it, so it is crucial to pay attention to the signs they may need extra help. We understand that bringing up the conversation can be challenging, so we’ve outlined some of the key issues to watch out for so you can intervene at the right time. 

Hygiene: If your loved one seems to have trouble getting dressed, has unkempt hair or issues with taking regular baths, it may be time to consider additional care. A few habits are fine, but once the behaviors turn into a routine, your loved one may need help managing their hygiene to stay healthy.

Diet: Regular healthy meals are a requirement for adult living. If your loved one seems to struggle with preparing meals or can’t finish their food, it is probably time for some additional care to ensure they operate at their best.

Transportation: Is your loved one taking a long time to get from place to place? Are there dents and scratches on their car? Once your loved one has issues with mobility, it becomes very difficult to leave the house, meaning additional caregiving may be needed.

Memory: Nobody has a perfect memory, but if you notice your loved one is repeatedly forgetting dates, events, their daily routine or aspects of themselves, it is likely time to introduce a caregiver to the environment.

Home Safety: Many homes are not "senior proof," meaning items like loose rugs or stairs can cause danger when it comes to getting around. If you find bruises or cuts on your loved one, it may be time to adjust their living situation for their safety.

Though it can feel awkward introducing the idea of additional help, minding the importance of your loved one’s safety should be your ultimate concern. There are many places that offer care, from live-in services to full residential facilities. The Silver Fox also offers a flexible adult day program so you can see how your loved one does with daily care. There are many options available to you, so be sure to reach out to your primary care provider for more support. 

Sources & More Reading:

Levine, D. (2020). Identifying the right time for senior care - US news health. Retrieved October 22, 2021, from https://health.usnews.com/senior-care/caregiving/articles/identifying-the-right-time-for-senior-care.