Accepting the need for assistance is difficult for most parents as they age. They will want to remain independent and in control of various aspects of their lives for as long as possible. This entails hiding or downplaying the issues they may be experiencing until sudden changes in their physical, social, mental, and emotional health make it apparent that they need help. However, some changes in your elderly parent’s behavior and health may be so severe that administering the relevant help by yourself can be challenging. Read on for five signs that you need help taking care of your elderly parents.
Decreased mobility
Approximately 684,000 people die every year due to falls, and the majority of these fall-related deaths occur among elderly adults 65 years and above. As your loved one ages, their balance and mobility decline, making them more vulnerable to falls. This makes it difficult and unsafe to perform day-to-day activities, so you should consider researching the various home care options for seniors and invest in one. A professional home caregiver can monitor your parent, making it easier and safer for them to get around and maintain their freedom.
Poor medication management
Most senior adults fill nine to 13 prescriptions annually. As your parents age, they may become more forgetful, and the high number of medications may be challenging to manage. This could result in severe health complications. If you notice full bottles of prescription medicine around the house, it could indicate that you need professional help to care for your parent. An in-home caregiver can help your elderly parent manage their medication correctly and prevent them from overdosing or duplicating doses, despite the amount of prescribed medication.
Behavior and mental status changes
One of the most obvious signs that your elderly parent needs professional care is mental status and behavior changes. Behavior and mental status changes often indicate the onset of dementia, Parkinson’s disease, or Alzheimer’s. Some of the changes in mental status and behavior you should be wary about include;
- Trouble keeping track of time
- Losing interest in activities and hobbies
- Extreme mood swings
- Verbal or physical abuse
- Intense agitation
- Lack of drive and motivation
- Shifts in the sleeping patterns
- Failing to return or pick phone calls from family members and friends
Poor personal hygiene
Does your elderly parent have a body odor or bad breath more often? As your loved one ages, some personal grooming activities such as bathing, brushing teeth and hair, or trimming nails may become a challenge. Consider seeking an in-home caregiver’s help if you realize a noticeable decline in your elderly parent’s hygiene.
Unexplained wounds and bruises on your parent’s body
One way to know your elderly parent has trouble dressing, cleaning, walking, or doing other chores on their own is when they show up with unexplained wounds or bruising. This is evidence of slips, falls, and accidents in the home, which should be alarming, so you should get a professional home caregiver to ensure your parent’s safety.
Endnote
Your parent may never ask you for help, so it is your responsibility to develop the best care depending on your parent’s needs. Familiarize yourself with the above signs to determine when you need help taking care of your elderly loved ones.