In-Home Care Watford: 5 Signs Your Loved One May Need Help

Read our complete guide to understanding when your loved one may need in-home care (Watford edition).

As your loved one ages, you may notice moments where they experience difficulties with daily tasks. While that’s perfectly natural in most cases, there will be a point at which you start to consider what assistance they may need long-term.

What that help looks like could include everything from meals on wheels to in-home care or live-in care. But before you start to consider what help you need, it’s essential to understand the signs to look out for.

In-Home Care Watford: What are the 5 Signs My Loved One Needs Home Help?

Here are the five signs that your loved one may need home help.

1. Difficulty with daily tasks

If you notice that your loved one is struggling to perform tasks that they used to be able to do easily, such as bathing, dressing, and cooking, it may be a sign that they need help at home. They may also have trouble with mobility, making it difficult for them to get around their home.

2. Forgetfulness or confusion

Memory issues and confusion are common in seniors. If your loved one struggles to remember important things, such as appointments or medications, it may be time to consider home help. They may also need help following through with tasks or conversations.

3. Unexplained bruises or injuries

If you notice that your loved one has a few unexplained bruises or injuries, it may be a sign that they are having difficulty with balance or mobility. It could also indicate that they are at risk of falls, a common concern for seniors.

4. Changes in appetite or weight

Changes in appetite or weight loss can indicate that your loved one is not eating enough or is having difficulty preparing meals. This could be due to a physical or mental health issue or medication side effects. It could also be that as we age, we simply don’t want to cook – we hear that a lot. Again, some form of home help would mean they get good meals each day.

5. Overall decline in physical or mental health

If you notice that your loved one’s physical or mental health is declining, consider home help. Decreased energy, changes in mood, and a general decline in overall health can manifest in various ways. Home care or live-in care can be essential in providing companionship, which they will likely miss due to decreased mobility and community activity.

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If you notice these signs, it may be time to discuss your loved one’s care needs with them. Many home care options are available, including in-home caregivers and assisted living facilities, which can provide your loved one with the support they need to maintain their independence and quality of life. 

We promote the former, home care, because, through our senior care research, we have found that 71% of people want to grow old in their own homes, and almost the same number worry about being a burden to their families. Home care solves that problem, which, for many, extends their independence and life expectancy.

What In-Home Care is Available in Watford?

At Home Instead, we provide a comprehensive service for those needing in-home care in Watford. We’ve added to that list some services you may need in the interim before in-home help is necessary or alongside your home care provision.

You can find more quick tips on creating a senior-friendly home here, which is something else to consider.

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Contact our Watford team today if you think it's time to explore your in-home care options - Tel: 01923 250513

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