When we’re kids, we rely on our parents to take care of us, fulfill our needs, and never leave us alone. They’re always there, guiding us through life. But as time passes, roles begin to shift. We grow into adults, and our parents enter their senior years.

As the body ages, things naturally start to slow down. At this stage in life, seniors often require a bit more care and comfort. Unfortunately, many elderly individuals are moved to assisted living facilities because their adult children don’t have the time or resources to provide the care they need.

But with the help of in-home care services like Baywood Home Care in Minneapolis, your elderly relatives and parents don’t have to be left alone. In-home care offers a more personalized, comfortable solution, allowing them to stay in familiar surroundings while receiving the assistance they need.

So, how do you know when it’s time to contact an in-home care provider? What are the signs to look for? Keep reading to find out.

5 Signs Senior Family Member Needs Professional Home Care

1. Social Withdrawal

As our loved ones age, they may start to feel more isolated. A shrinking social circle can lead to feelings of loneliness and even depression. Socializing is crucial for maintaining mental and emotional well-being, and it helps improve memory and overall happiness.

Be on the lookout for these signs of withdrawal:

  • Difficulty with communication.
  • Struggling to stay oriented or focused.
  • Trouble starting or completing daily tasks.
  • Avoiding interactions and preferring to stay alone at home.

Companionship is a common service offered by in-home care providers, keeping your loved one engaged, inspired, and confident each day.

2. Inability to Perform Basic Everyday Tasks

As the body slows down, seniors often face difficulties with even the most basic daily functions. Consider the following questions:

  • Are they unable to dress themselves?
  • Can they use the washroom independently, or do they need assistance?
  • Are they willing to accept help?
  • Can they prepare simple meals and eat on their own?
  • Can they take a shower without help?
  • Do they need assistance with basic functions every day?

If the answer to any of these questions is yes, it may be time to reach out to an in-home care service provider. Live-in services from Baywood Home Care can help take the burden off your shoulders by assisting with tasks like housekeeping, medication management, running errands, and much more.

3. Nutritional Issues

As people age, their sensory organs, like taste, begin to deteriorate. This can affect their diet and eating habits. They may struggle with cooking or preparing meals and even with eating. Live-in services from Baywood Home Care can help manage this issue.

Look out for signs like:

  • Sudden weight loss
  • Lack of interest in food
  • Changing appetite
  • Forgetting to cook or eat

 

4. Mobility Issues

Is your elderly relative having trouble moving around the house? Are they able to shift from the bed to a chair or walk to the bathroom? If moving independently is becoming a challenge, it may be time to consider in-home caregivers. This could indicate they need assistance 24/7, every day of the week.

5. Memory Loss

Forgetfulness is a common sign that your parent may be aging and require daily assistance. Watch for symptoms such as:

  • Skipping medications
  • Missing doctor’s appointments
  • Difficulty recalling basic information or familiar tasks

Alzheimer’s and dementia are common conditions that affect older adults.

Elders may also experience wandering or getting lost. Look for signs like increasing restlessness, forgetting familiar places, or neglecting former responsibilities. It’s important to consult with a local General Practitioner for a proper diagnosis.

If you’re looking for quality in-home care services for senior family members in Southern Minnesota, hire licensed and experienced caregivers from Baywood Home Care.