For those aged 65+, an independent lifestyle is a key determinant for ensuring a higher quality of life. But as the average person ages, their body undergoes physical, emotional, and mental changes that make aging in place more difficult. At some point, most seniors require at least some outside assistance to remain independent. If there’s an aging-in-place loved one in your life, here’s how to know when it’s time for “the talk” with them about in-home care.
Age-Related Challenges for Seniors
No matter how well a person takes care of themselves age-related changes are inevitable. Older adults typically face these health and wellness challenges:
- Changes to hearing and eyesight
- Decreased flexibility, agility, and mobility
- Weakened immune system
- Social isolation
- Malnutrition
- Less physical and mental endurance
- Chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis
Once a senior is no longer able to perform one or more activities of daily living (ADLs) it places their independence at risk.
Why Aging in Place is Better
Seniors who live independently enjoy these benefits as a result:
- More comfortable and private than other living arrangements
- Costs less than an assisted living facility or nursing home
- Helps prevent or slow the progression of memory loss
- Strengthens social networks
- Gives them more control over life decisions
Signs It’s Time for In-Home Care
If you are concerned that your loved one is no longer able to take care of themselves without some outside assistance, look for these signs:
Changes in appearance
Rapid weight loss or gain, wearing the same clothes every day, and poor hygiene are all signs that your loved one may need help. Cognitive red flags like memory loss, confusion, and forgetfulness could be signaling the onset of dementia.
If limited mobility is affecting your senior, volunteer to assist them around the house. You can help them with preparing meals, doing yard work, cleaning up, etc. If you suspect that your loved one has cognitive impairment, schedule them a doctor’s appointment so they can be evaluated further.
Frequent falls
Fall-related injuries and fractures send millions of independent seniors to hospital emergency departments every year. If your loved one has fallen several times within the past year, they may need some in-home assistance. Once you have their permission, do a home safety assessment and make any necessary modifications based on what you’ve learned.
Driving safety issues
Has your senior has recently received several tickets or been involved in multiple accidents? Speak to them about driving safety. Suspicious dents and scrapes could also be a sign that it’s time to turn over the car keys for good. While respectfully sharing your concerns with them discuss reliable transportation alternatives.
Poor money management
Stacks of past-due bills may be a sign that your senior is having trouble managing their finances. Offer to become a custodian on their bank and credit card accounts, which will also help protect them from financial scammers. If they haven’t already done so, encourage your loved one to prepare a will and to choose someone as their durable power-of-attorney (POA).
Social isolation
Depression, anxiety, and dementia keep many older adults from socializing like they should. On the other hand, seniors that stay socially engaged tend to enjoy happier, healthier, and even longer lives than those who are lonely and depressed.
Encourage your loved one to participate in activities they enjoy. Show them how to use the latest technologies, like video chats and social media, to stay in reconnect with old friends- or make new ones. Sometimes all it takes is an old-fashioned phone call from you to bring a smile to your loved one’s face!
Personalized In-Home Care for Seniors in South Florida
Looking after an aging-in-place loved one can be challenging when you’re busy or live far away. If you decide that it’s time for some in-home care assistance, contact us! At Dependable Senior Care, we are a fully licensed and insured home care provider with highly qualified caregivers who are well trained and carefully screened. Our personalized in-home solutions are available 7 days a week, ranging from a few hours per day to 24-hour and live-in care. For your peace of mind, DSC is owned and operated by healthcare professionals with over 80 years of combined experience.
Our compassionate in-home caregivers can provide daily living assistance for personal care, respite care, nursing care, companionship care, and Alzheimer’s and dementia care. With offices in Palm Beach, Miami-Dade, and Broward County, Dependable Senior Care is your family trusted source for senior in-home care in South Florida. To learn more now, or to schedule an initial consultation, please visit us at www.dependableseniorcare.com!