It’s hard to know just when a loved one needs outside assistance to help them live life to the fullest. However, there are some signs that it might be time to start thinking about getting help for them or looking into what help is available. This doesn’t mean making a fast decision, but if the following signs are noticed, it may be time to start the conversation.
Too Much for Loved Ones to Handle it All
Often, family members will take on the extra assistance a senior needs to ensure they can continue to live independently for as long as possible. Over time, though, the senior may need more assistance. There may come a point where the assistance needed is too much for a family member to handle alone, especially if they work, have kids to care for, and more. At this point, it may be beneficial to look into residential services for older adults to help the senior get all the assistance they need.
Physical or Emotional Burnout for Caregivers
Family members who act as caregivers for seniors can start to notice symptoms of burnout. They may struggle to have time for everything, feel like they’re under more stress, or feel exhausted because they’re doing too much. Pushing through burnout is never a good idea, as physical and emotional symptoms can get worse over time. Instead, this might be a good time to look into what assistance is available to give the caregiver a break. This can help relieve burnout and allow the loved one to get the rest they need before moving forward.
Personal Care is Neglected
Loved ones may notice that their personal tasks are neglected because of the care they’re providing for a loved one. They might not have time to keep the house clean, may end up eating out more frequently because they don’t have time to get groceries, or may not do activities they used to enjoy just because they don’t have enough time. Getting outside assistance for their loved one can give them their free time back again, allowing them to focus on their own tasks and whatever they need for their own personal care.
Potential Safety Concerns
There may be potential safety concerns when a senior is home alone and a family member or loved one can’t be with them. This could include the potential for a fire to start if they leave the stove on after cooking, getting lost when they decide to take a walk, or just forgetting to do things like lock their front door when they’re home. They could be at an increased risk of falls or may have other issues that could compromise their safety when alone. If there are any safety concerns with the senior living at home, it’s a good idea to look into the options available to help keep them as safe as possible.
If you’re noticing any of these signs, it might be time to look into the help available for them. Take the time to look into the different options to find out what’s going to work best for them and to make sure they will have all of the services they need. With plenty of options to choose from, there’s one that can be a great fit for any senior.
