Being the primary caregiver for an aging family member is a big responsibility. If anything happens to them, you feel personally responsible. Using an in-home caregiver is a great option to help take some of this pressure off. But how do you know when it’s the right time?
If you can relate to any of the following, you’ll know it’s time.
Their Health Has Taken a Turn for the Worse
As your parent ages, their health may get worse. If they’ve taken a bad fall or been diagnosed with an incurable disease like Parkinson’s disease, it may require more caregiving than you’re able to provide. At home care will allow for your parent to heal properly with appropriate care in the comfort of their own home.
You’re Just Too Busy
We get it. Sometimes, life gets in the way of allowing you to provide as much care as you would like to. Instead of trying to juggle it all, an in-home caregiver can look after your parent and make sure they get the necessary socialization they require. You’ll be able to relax knowing your loved one is taken care of while you take care of yourself.
They’re Struggling with Daily Tasks
From getting dressed in the morning to feeding the dog, if you’re noticing even the simplest of tasks are causing your loved one grief, it’s time to consider at home care. A caregiver will be able to assist your parent with their daily tasks, anything from grocery shopping and laundry to pet maintenance and bathroom assistance.
They’ve Lost Their Licence
The loss of a driver’s licence can be a challenging obstacle for a senior to overcome. Whether you intervened as a family member or the government or a doctor has taken away your parent’s driver’s license, it can be difficult. It takes away from their independence.
Living without a primary mode of transportation is a big adjustment. Your parent will have to learn how to plan their daily errands and social events around your schedule. Or, you could use the services of an in-home care provider who could act as a transport for your loved one. They will be able to drive your loved one wherever they need to go, so the loss of their car won’t feel quite so drastic.
They’re Complaining More
It’s extremely important to listen to your senior loved ones. If they’re telling you they’re having trouble, this is the greatest indication they need help. If they’re taking the time to acknowledge they can’t do things on their own, it’s up to you to get them the at home care they need.
They’re Becoming More Forgetful
Over 402,000 Canadians are currently living with dementia. As your loved one ages, their risk of developing dementia increases—forgetfulness may be an early sign. At home care can help make sure your parent isn’t forgetting to turn off the oven or take their medication. An in-home care provider will help keep your loved one safer.
They’re Not Taking the Time to Eat Properly
Proper diet is important when it comes to warding off sickness and keeping your parent in optimal health. If your parent is left to cook on their own and sustaining themselves on T.V. dinners, that’s not enough nutrients to keep them healthy.
An at home care provider can not only do the grocery shopping for your loved one, but make a meal plan or cook their meals too. This way, you’ll know exactly what you loved one is eating, and you can rest assured knowing they’re getting the proper nutritional intake.
