Signs It’s Time to Consider Professional Home Care

Happy senior woman talking to a caretaker who is visiting her at home

When to Hire a Caregiver in Glenview, IL

Deciding when a loved one needs extra support around the home is one of the most challenging choices a family can make. However, knowing when to hire a caregiver for your loved one ensures they enjoy a higher quality of life while maintaining their dignity and independence. Families throughout Glenview and the North Shore, IL, trust Elijah Home Health Services, LLC, for in-home care services. For many, knowing the right time to consider in-home care for a loved one can be a challenge. Our home health care decision guide is meant to help you identify the most common signs your loved one needs in-home care, so you can feel confident you’re making the right choice for them. Learn more, then contact our team to schedule your assessment.

What Are the Benefits of Professional Home Care?

Before identifying the signs, it’s helpful for you to understand what in-home care involves. In-home care provides professional assistance to seniors and individuals with disabilities in the comfort of their home. We can tailor our services to meet the specific needs of your loved one, offering assistance with daily tasks and specialized medical care. Whether they require 24-hour live-in care or hourly care, you can count on our professionals to provide peace of mind to your entire family.

Declining Personal Hygiene

One of the most noticeable signs that a loved one needs more help around the house is a decline in personal hygiene. A consistent pattern of forgetting or ignoring the basic hygiene needs may stem from mobility limitation, memory loss, or depression, which makes it challenging to keep up with daily grooming routines. Poor personal hygiene can lead to health issues and depression. If you notice any of the following problems, it may be time to consider in-home care:

Body Odor
Unkempt Appearance
Wearing the Same Clothes
Poor Oral Hygiene

Increased Mobility Challenges

Mobility is a significant concern for seniors. Can your loved one safely get out of their home in case of an emergency? Are they capable of safely going up and down the stairs without risk of injury? Mobility is the key to independence, and when it begins to decline, the risk of serious injury increases dramatically. A professional caregiver can provide mobility assistance by offering help during times when it is needed most. Families should look out for the following:

Unsteadiness
Difficulty Standing Up
Bruises or Injuries From Falls
Avoids Stairs

Memory Loss and Cognitive Decline

While some forgetfulness is a regular part of aging, significant memory loss or confusion can be signs of more serious cognitive issues, like dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. If your loved one is forgetting appointments, repeating the same question, or seems confused and disoriented when you see them, consider in-home care services. In-home care for seniors can provide essential reminders for medications, appointments, and daily routines, ensuring their safety and well-being.

Neglecting Household Chores

A home that was once tidy and organized may start to show signs of neglect as your loved one ages. When it becomes more challenging for seniors to maintain their homes, it can lead to a variety of safety and health concerns. An in-home care professional can provide light housekeeping services, such as laundry and meal preparation, to help maintain a safer living space for seniors. Some of the most common signs of a senior who’s unable to keep up with maintaining their living space include:

Cluttered Home – Items are left haphazardly around their living room, bedroom, and bathroom, creating cluttered and hazardous living conditions.
Dirty Kitchen – Kitchens can become a health hazard if spoiled food isn’t disposed of or dirty dishes are left to accumulate in the sink.
Unpaid Bills – Do they joke about forgetting to pay their cable, electric, or other utility bills? Unpaid bills can be a sign of forgetfulness or cognitive decline.
Neglected Yard – An overgrown lawn or untended garden, which they used to take pride in.

Social Isolation

Has your loved one stopped participating in activities they once loved? The reasons could be numerous. Whether they’re dealing with depression and anxiety or they’re no longer able to participate physically, social isolation can have a significant impact on their quality of life. In-home caregivers are trained to provide companionship, encourage their interests, and help with transportation to local activities, leading to a more meaningful life and combating loneliness. Families should look for the following signs to determine if in-home care is proper for their loved one:

Loss of Interest in Hobbies They Once Loved
Reduced Communication or Willing to Converse
Spending Most of Their Days Alone

Changes in Eating Habits

Proper nutrition is crucial for both physical and mental health, particularly for seniors. However, taking the time to cook a well-balanced meal three times a day can be a significant challenge for seniors. If they’re unable to drive or lift heavy grocery bags, that’s an additional obstacle. If you notice a substantial change in their eating habits or excessive weight loss, an in-home caregiver may be the right choice. In-home care professionals can assist with meal planning, cooking, and grocery shopping to ensure your loved ones enjoy a balanced diet.

Find the Right In-Home Care for Seniors

At Elijah Home Health Services, LLC, we’re committed to providing in-home care for seniors throughout Glenview and the North Shore, IL. Our compassionate and professional caregivers can meet with you and your loved one to design a personalized care plan that enhances their comfort, safety, and overall well-being. Deciding on in-home care for seniors can be difficult. However, when you choose us, they’ll maintain their independence and dignity in a safe and familiar setting. Speak to a member of our care team today to schedule your assessment.