As people get older, the physical body undergoes several changes — some of which are more obvious and noticeable than others.
If you notice that someone you care about is not as lively or is getting around as well as they used to, it is only natural to be concerned about their overall health and well-being.
This is one of the main reasons why several people should begin to consider senior or aged care services and options.
Aged care is the support given to elders. It can involve help with daily activities, accommodation, health care, and equipment (walking frames, wheelchairs, and ramps).
Aged care services can either let the elder stay inside the comfort of their own home and space or offer around-the-clock care and assistance at a care facility.
While it is truly heartbreaking to see a loved one decline, it is not something that can be avoided.
What you can do is make it easier for them by looking out for signs and creating a care plan.
Signs That Your Loved One Should Consider Residential Aged Care Homes
Considering aged care for your loved one is not a decision done overnight.
It needs careful thought, discussion, and planning.
To help ease your worries, here are some signs that may indicate that they are ready for aged care:
1. Frequent Accidents or Falls
A fall or accident is the most common warning that your loved one may need to move to a residential elderly care facility.
If they have already had an existing disease or ailment, this might indicate that it has worsened and requires further attention and observation.
Also, take into careful consideration that your loved one may not let you know they’ve fallen.
Some may deem this as something not worth mentioning.
Though, make sure that even the most minor stumbles or trips need to take seriously.
If you notice bruises or scrapes, ask what happened.
If there is a persistent or ongoing danger, it may be time to consider residential aged care.
2. Trouble Moving Around The House
General fatigue or shortness of breath after short walks could be a sign that your loved one is in poor health or at risk of declining.
If they cannot travel around the house safely, they may not be able to fully take care of themselves.
It can involve difficulties with steep driveways, stairs, or large houses.
For example, your loved one may struggle climbing the stairs or grow exhausted going down the long road or driveway.
If you observe that they are having difficulty with these issues, it may be time to speak with them about aged care.
Another thing to look out for is their mobility. It is not only about having a hard time walking.
Observe if they are having trouble getting dressed in the morning, bathing, moving out of their bed, or getting on and off the toilet.
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3. Forgetting Serious Things
Forgetting to send a text or to turn off the lights is one thing but realizing that your loved ones forgot to take their prescriptions or medicine should be a cause for greater concern.
Anything that could potentially put their health in jeopardy is a possible sign that they have problems taking care of themselves.
It means that they could benefit from the consistent and regular attention that nursing homes offer.
Also, constant forgetfulness or significant memory problems may be signs of dementia.
It might also indicate an underlying medical condition or medication mismanagement.
Keep a lookout for problems such as forgetting routine tasks, getting lost, and mismanaging cash.
Also Read: What Does Home Care Assistance Entail?
Signs That Your Loved One Should Consider In-Home Care
In-home aged care services help elders stay independent for as long as they can.
It includes personal care, food, housework, transport, social activities, physio, shopping, and modifications to their home.
Here are a few signs you can look out for if you are considering in-home care for your loved ones:
1. Inability To Keep Up With Chores
Even for younger adults, taking care of a whole property or home is challenging.
However, this does not imply that they are wholly incapable of it.
When a spouse passes away, all responsibilities fall to another family, which may be a hardship.
In this scenario, home care may be a better alternative.
You may be able to customize their care options, including housekeeping assistance.
2. Fear Of Isolation Or Living Alone
Your loved ones may not display signals that they require continual supervision, but they may be concerned about living alone for several reasons.
Perhaps they miss socializing. They could also be afraid of having a medical emergency or falling at home without no one else to help them. In this case, moving out of the house is not the only option.
Home care services consist of having a pastoral care professional or worker visit your home regularly for a cup of tea and a talk.
It could also lead to trips with like-minded people that allow your loved one to socialize.
A personal safety alarm could ease their anxieties and fears.
It could also provide a means of communication in case of an emergency.
A home care package may also cover the cost of a safety alarm.
3. Not Eating Properly
When cooking for one, maintaining a healthy diet will be difficult.
Though, that does not imply that they are ready for residential aged care.
Home care packages can aid in giving them their needed nutrition.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a trusted Aged Care provider in Geelong, you can reach out to Homestyle Aged Care!
They can assist you and your loved ones in their transition to aged care life with perfect ease.
Hi, I’m the Founder and Developer of Paramedics World, a blog truly devoted to Paramedics. I am a Medical Lab Tech, a Web Developer and Bibliophiliac. My greatest hobby is to teach and motivate other peoples to do whatever they wanna do in life.