Signs It Might Be Time To Hire A Caregiver

As people in Oklahoma City, OK, get older, loved ones watch the changes that occur. A once vital and energetic person becomes easily exhausted. People who were the life of the party suddenly quit attending social events. Many problems faced by seniors are difficult for family members to handle alone. Either they require more constant care or the family member doesn’t have the skills to handle the problem. All these issues indicate that it may be time to hire a caregiver.

A dramatic change in hygiene may be one indicator.

A change in personal hygiene can indicate problems arising from several possibilities. Sometimes, health issues make personal hygiene more difficult. Taking a shower can become a task. Remembering to shower and groom may be the reason for lack of hygiene. Depression and loneliness are other causes of poor hygiene. Lack of exercise and a poor diet is often common among seniors. Both of these factors play a role in depression, as does social isolation. A caregiver visiting a few hours a week can make a difference.

A trip to the hospital or chronic issues with medication might be a sign you need additional help.

Memory issues can create problems with medications. Forgetting medications, a doctor’s appointment, consuming food that aggravates a condition, or not eating at all makes health issues worse, ending with a hospital visit. Visits to the hospital can occur due to falls. Caregivers can remove obstacles and help make the house safer with organization. A caregiver can help organize medicine and provide the appropriate meds at the scheduled time. Even a virtual caregiver can provide reminders.

The inability to do household tasks or care for pets are indicators.

It’s not just the person requiring caregiving that suffers if there’s no one there to help. Pets also suffer. If a family pet shows signs of neglect, help may be necessary. The inability to clean litter boxes or take the family dog for a potty walk can create signs in the home. A malnourished pet is another sign help is required. Dirty dishes in all rooms or rotten food in the refrigerator is a sign that a caregiver’s help is necessary.

• Isolation and lack of exercise can cause weakness. Muscle mass diminishes with age. Lack of exercise accelerates the process. Caregivers provide company. They can take a senior to physical therapy or an exercise class.
• Unexplained bruises may be a sign that a caregiver’s services are necessary. If someone lives alone, multiple unexplained bruises indicate they are falling and either forgetting the problem or failing to mention it.
• Caregivers can help with grocery shopping, meal preparation, housekeeping, and laundry. They provide companionship and provide transportation for appointments or just getting out of the house.
• If you’ve been the family caregiver but find you can no longer do it alone, help is available. You can personalize what is necessary for your loved one to help lift the burden and keep them safe, whether it’s several hours a day or a few hours a week, flexibility is important.

For more information, contact us today at LiveBetter At Home