Few people want to think about the challenges that come with aging, but the time comes for everyone when some assistance is necessary. If you’re making plans on behalf of an older relative, it’s important to know how to recognize the signs and symptoms that indicate a problem. Here are some factors that let you know your loved one needs home care.

• You might notice changes in your loved one’s appearance. Some of the first signs that a person needs additional help include neglected personal hygiene, a disheveled appearance, or dirty clothes. The problem could be that the person has trouble with personal hygiene tasks or is fearful of falling in the tub or shower. Changes in weight can also be a sign that an older person needs assistance. Sometimes, people have trouble preparing healthy meals, or they forget to eat regularly. This can lead not only to weight swings but also to poor health.
• Personality shifts can indicate a need for assistance. Often, as people age, they feel isolated, depressed, and lonely. If your loved one is having mood swings, showing a loss of interest in favorite activities, or seems irritable, these can be indications of depression or other health concerns. An in-home caregiver may be the solution, providing companionship and helping your relative live a more balanced life.
• Memory problems can be a major issue for older people. Being occasionally forgetful may not be a big problem. However, when it turns to confusion that leads to skipping medication, forgetting to pay bills, or getting lost in familiar surroundings, this can have serious consequences. An in-home caregiver can gently remind your loved one to pay the bills or take medication, and will recognize if what seems like forgetfulness is actually a symptom of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
• If your loved one is suddenly having accidents or experiencing increased illnesses, there may be a need for additional help at home. Safety must be a priority, and an in-home caregiver can help to not only keep the person safe but also help with household chores, meal preparation, and personal hygiene, in order to reduce the likelihood of illness.
• Inability to perform day-to-day tasks indicates that a person needs assistance. You may notice a messy house or an unkempt yard because your loved one simply isn’t up to handling the necessary tasks required in day-to-day life. An in-home caregiver can help with personal needs like light housekeeping.
• You may be feeling physically and emotionally drained. Sometimes, the sign that your loved one needs in-home care is that you begin to experience caregiver burnout. From grocery shopping to housekeeping to transportation to appointments to helping manage medication, caring for an older person is a major responsibility. It’s ok to admit that you need help too.

At BrightStar Care of North Houston/The Woodlands, we know that caring for an aging loved one can be challenging. That’s why we work hard to deliver the right care for your relative and to be a partner you can turn to for support. Because we believe that caring is more than just a job, our nurses, therapists, CNAs, and caregivers offer the most professional compassionate care available. In the comforting, familiar surroundings of home, we offer a full range of care services to meet your loved one’s needs and help you when you need it most. Contact us or call 281-367-7827 to learn more about our services and let us know what we can do for you.