At various stages of our lives we’ll need a little extra help at home. Maybe it’s after the birth of a baby or career change.
The truth is nearly all of us enjoy being at home where things are familiar and comfortable. Our homes hold dear memories and some of our favorite things. However, staying at home without assistance can present dangers to the elderly population. There’s an increased risk of falling or being injured. There may be a greater need for help with hygiene, nutrition and basic tasks. As the adult parent, you yourself may need a bit of extra help to get it all done.
If you’re considering hiring home care for your parents, here are some considerations to keep in mind as you make the decision. The following signs point to a need for extra help at home.
You’re Concerned for Their Safety
The structure of your parent’s home may bring about some challenges. A narrow hallway, rickety stairs or even a tile floor can increase the chance of falling or occurring injuries. If your parent is losing mobility or vision, cooking and self-care can be more difficult as well.
Take a look at your parent’s home and habits. Is your mother or father able to meet all their needs? Are they able to make it from one point to another without assistance? How about transportation? If you notice unexplained dings or dents on the car – it’s likely time to arrange a new and safer method of getting them to and from their destinations.
You’re Concerned for Your Family’s Safety
As anyone can tell you, we often undergo memory loss as we age. However, this loss is typically coupled with a desire to do things as we’ve always done. Your parents may make their best efforts to cook, clean and keep things up. Still, there may come a time when they need more supervision than you can provide.
If you have small children or pets in your home, it can be difficult to care for them and your parents at the same time. Instead of risking kitchen fires, open doors and injuries, look for an extra pair of hands to help you out.
Your Loved One Isn’t Getting the Proper Medical and Personal Care
Maintaining appropriate personal care becomes harder as we age. There are also more dietary concerns and medications to be aware of. You may notice your parents not taking care of themselves as they should. While it might not seem like much at first, this lack of personal care can spiral. Missing medications or taking too much of them is a serious concern.
Likewise falling behind on household chores has the potential to turn their homes into safety hazards. Instead of dealing with the occurrences as they come, make a plan to improve your parent’s quality of life right at home with in-home health care. Matrix Home Health Care Specialists offer an in-home program with carefully screened and fully trained caregivers.
Contact our team to learn more about our specialized Plans of Care for patients, developed by licensed RNs.
