8 Signs Your Senior Family Member Needs a Caregiver

If you have a senior family member, it’s likely they will avoid seeking help as they age, since most seniors want to remain in control of their life for as long as possible. This means that you have to monitor them to determine when to seek help to keep your elderly loved one safe and in good mental, physical and social health. Read on for 8 signs that your older family member needs a caregiver.

Improper medication management

Did you know that most aging adults in the United States fill nine to 13 prescriptions each year? These prescriptions can be challenging to manage as your senior family member ages and forgetfulness takes root, and you may start noticing full bottles of prescription medicine in the cabinets. Consider hiring a caregiver from Husky Senior Care to help your loved one manage their medication. A professional caregiver will ensure the senior family member takes medication on time and does not duplicate doses or overdose.

Filthy home

It is not unusual for most people to live in a bit of clutter. However, you should be worried if you notice a significant change in your senior family member’s housekeeping routine. If you witness any evidence of hoarding, stained or wet carpets or furniture, dirty dishes, spoiled food in the kitchen, mould in the bathroom, or unmaintained landscaping, it could signify that your elderly parent requires help from a caregiver to keep the home in pristine condition and prevent health complications.

Chronic illness diagnosis

According to research by the National Council on Aging, 80% of senior adults suffer from at least one chronic disease, while 77% have two or more chronic illnesses. As your loved one ages, these conditions often deteriorate, and it can be challenging to manage them by themselves.

Unexplained bruises, scrapes, and cuts

Falls are some of the leading causes of death among senior adults 65 years and above. The risk of falls increases as these adults age, with over half of them falling every year at age 80.  If you notice any unexplained bruises, scrapes, and cuts on your elderly loved one, it could indicate falls, so you should consider seeking help from a professional. Caregivers are certified and trained in fall prevention, so they can fall-proof your senior family member’s home to ascertain that they remain safe.

Lack of proper personal hygiene

Has your senior family member been consistently wearing the same outfit for a few days now? Is there a decline in your elderly parent’s appearance? This indicates difficulties in maintaining personal hygiene. A professional caregiver can ensure your loved one bathes regularly, brushes their teeth daily, and even take care of their grooming and personal hygiene.

Changes in mental and behavioural status

Changes in mental and behavioural status are some of the most apparent signs that your senior family member needs a caregiver. Suppose you realize your loved one has suddenly lost interest in activities and hobbies, is experiencing challenges keeping track of time, fails to return family members or friend’s calls, or becomes physically or verbally abusive. In that case, you should seek a trained caregiver’s services. These mental and behavioural changes are often side effects of Parkinson’s disease, dementia, or Alzheimer’s, so you should ensure your loved ones get the desired medical attention to cope with their condition.

Decreased mobility

Reduced mobility is one of the leading causes of fall-related deaths among older adults. As they age, your elderly parent’s mobility and balance often decline. Hiring a professional caregiver helps you monitor your loved ones to make it safer and easier to get around while maintaining their freedom. Below are signs of mobility issues among older adults:

A decline in motor coordination

Wobbling when walking

Muscular rigidity or spasms

Numbness or absence of sensitivity in the feet

General muscle weakness: dragging of feet, limping, or allowing hips to fall

Complete lack of general body movement

Forgetfulness

If you notice stacks of unopened mails, unpaid bills, and missed appointments, it could indicate forgetfulness, a symptom of Alzheimer\’s. Hire a home caregiver to monitor your senior loved one as some signs of forgetfulness, such as forgetting how to turn off stoves or take medicine, could have severe repercussions.

Endnote

Hiring a caregiver gives you peace of mind as you are confident that your senior family member is well cared for. Look out for the above signs to determine whether or not your elderly parent needs a caregiver.