By knowing what to look for, you can get your loved one help as soon as they need it.
As your loved ones get older, it is increasingly important that you monitor their behavior and look for any signs of them slowing down. Many seniors will not want to admit they need help and surrender their independence. Recognizing the fact that they may require a caregiver for help around the house will allow them to live a safer, more fulfilling life and give you peace of mind.
Here’s what to look for:
Appearance & Behavior: An unkempt look and bad hygiene could mean your loved one is either physically unable to take care of themselves or they have become too apathetic to keep their appearance clean. Other things to look out for include irritableness as the day goes on, and sudden changes to their personality, such as going from reserved to suddenly very talkative. Their memory will also be impacted, specifically their short term memory. They may not remember what they did in the morning but can recall events from years past. They could end up doing household chores such as mowing the lawn twice as they forgot they already did it earlier in the day. Lastly, they may exhibit confusion and become lost in the middle of a conversation or repeat things that were already said. If you see this happening consistently, you should consult a medical professional.
The House: Examining the place where your loved ones live can provide clues as to whether or not they require the assistance of a caregiver. Is their spoiled food in the fridge? Has the mail been piling up? Are household chores suddenly being neglected? All of this are causes of concern, and should trigger a conversation between the two of you. A caregiver that can help your loved one with daily chores and keeping up their appearance could very well be the answer.
