5 Signs Your Loved One May Need Extra Help at Home

Recognizing that a parent, grandparent, or loved one may need additional support can be difficult. Families sometimes wait until a major incident occurs before considering home care, but there are often smaller signs that can indicate it is time to have a conversation.

Here are five things to watch for.

1. Household Tasks Are Becoming Difficult

Is the house becoming unusually cluttered? Are laundry, grocery shopping, dishes, or other regular chores being left undone?

Difficulty keeping up with household responsibilities can be a sign that everyday tasks are becoming more challenging.

In-home services can include housekeeping, laundry, grocery shopping, meal preparation, and other household assistance.

2. Personal Care Is Being Overlooked

Changes in grooming, bathing, dressing, or other personal-care routines may be another indication that someone could benefit from additional assistance.

These changes don't necessarily mean a person can no longer live independently. They may simply mean that a little extra support would make everyday life easier and safer.

3. Meals Are Being Skipped

Have you noticed that your loved one is eating less, relying heavily on convenience foods, or forgetting to shop for groceries?

Preparing meals can become difficult for a variety of reasons, including mobility challenges or simply losing the energy to cook.

Meal planning, grocery shopping, and meal preparation are examples of support that can be provided in the home.

4. They're Spending More Time Alone

Social connection matters. If someone who was once active and social begins spending most of their time alone, it may be worth checking in.

A caregiver can provide companionship through conversation, walks, hobbies, games, errands, and other everyday activities.

Sometimes, having someone there for a few hours can make a tremendous difference.

5. Safety Concerns Are Increasing

Repeated falls, difficulty moving around the home, poor lighting, loose rugs, or trouble navigating stairs can create safety concerns.

The NIA recommends evaluating the home for potential hazards and making changes such as improving lighting, securing carpets, installing grab bars, and reducing slip and fall risks.

Start the Conversation Early

Noticing one of these signs doesn't automatically mean your loved one needs full-time care. It may simply be an opportunity to talk about what kind of assistance could make life easier.

Starting the conversation early allows families to explore options together and create a plan based on the older adult's preferences and needs.

At Enriching Home Care Services, we believe asking for help should never mean giving up independence. The right support can help make home life more comfortable, manageable, and enriching.

-Hannah Andrusko-Starks, EHCS Administrative Assistant