If you have an older parent or relative, they may be able to live independently at home for the time being. They may need occasional care if you’re not available to tend to their needs or if they have a short-term medical condition, but otherwise, they may just need some help with daily activities from time to time.
However, that could change at any moment. If you’ve noticed your loved one has started losing weight despite not exercising or hasn’t been taking care of their personal hygiene, this may be a sign for help. They may be struggling more with progressive age-related issues or a chronic illness that makes it more difficult for them to take care of themselves. If these signs are ignored, it could lead to your loved one getting injured or having a health emergency, which could jeopardize their ability to live on their own.
Fortunately, long-term home care can provide the comprehensive support your loved one needs to remain in their home. By paying attention to these common symptoms, you can better determine if long-term care is right for your loved one.
Signs It May Be Time for Long-Term Care
Your Loved One Has Been Diagnosed with a Chronic Illness
Many chronic conditions such as heart disease, asthma, and cancer can make it difficult for your loved one to take care of themselves or complete daily tasks. They may also need someone to watch out for them in case their symptoms worsen, and they need medical attention.
Long-term caregivers not only assist seniors with everyday tasks like making meals and light housekeeping, but they also encourage seniors with chronic illnesses to adopt activities into their everyday routine that can help them manage their symptoms. In addition, they keep in regular communication with families, so you’ll often know how your loved one is doing and if there are any changes to their health and well-being.
Your Loved One Has Been Injured
Seniors with mobility issues can be prone to injuring themselves. One of the most common injuries seniors are at risk of are falls. Scenarios such as tripping on the stairs, slipping in the tub, or taking a wrong step can cause your loved one to suffer a major injury, which requires time to heal and recover. During this time, they’ll need more comprehensive care and support. They may even continue to need more support after the recovery process if the injury permanently affects their mobility and cognition.
Your Loved One Has Advanced Age-Related Issues
Many seniors live with minor mobility and cognitive issues that are caused by the aging process. However, some seniors may experience more debilitating age-related issues that can impact their ability to live independently. If your loved one has been eating unhealthy meals because it’s become too difficult to cook on their own, lives in an untidy home because it’s now too painful to sweep floors or dust, are unable to drive themselves because they can’t see the road clearly or has frequent incontinence issues, it’s important to find the care they need. These issues can pile up over time and negatively impact their health and safety.
Why Choose Home Care Assistance?
Many families choose Home Care Assistance for long-term care over other local home care agencies because we believe in a personalized approach to care. Your loved one will receive a care plan that’s customized based on their needs and schedule. We will ensure your loved one has the support they need in order to live out their golden years at home safely and comfortably.
Contact Home Care Assistance of Greater Burlington today to schedule a free in-home consultation and learn more about our long-term care services!
