Having a caregiver is a personal choice, however, it is not a sign of losing independence. Quite the opposite, it is a way to achieve an independent life and remove any feelings of feeling like a burden.
Hiring someone full time or part-time outside the family and friendship group could open up a life of possibilities for the elderly.
Signs to notice when your family members need a caregiver
Unable to independently perform daily tasks
This could be anything from maintaining their household, self-grooming, or running general errands. Having a carer for your family members will help ensure that they are able to complete daily tasks to help improve their general well-being.
Emotional distress: loneliness and depression
A sudden weight change, distancing from friends and family, and a loss of interest in hobbies could be signs of depression, loneliness, and isolation. Therefore, the role of the caregiver does not simply to provide support on the regular basis but to act as a friend who insure emotional, mental, and physical well-being.
They are a fall hazard
If your loved one is unsafe being home alone because they are a fall risk, it is time to consider a caregiver. Stairs, bathtubs, rugs, uneven flooring, and a messy home are all causes for a fall which could lead to long term and painful recovery.
Lacking in personal hygiene
You might start to notice that your elderly loved one has bad breath, body odor, and generally is struggling generally to keep up their personal hygiene routine. If this is the case, it’s time to consider a caregiver. A caregiver can help and ensure regularly hygiene and grooming routines.
Unpaid bills and unopened mail
Stacks of unsorted and unopened mail could mean that your loved one has forgotten or is just unable to pay bills and respond to mail. This is when the caregiver can assist in sorting out the mail and respond to important notifications.
Food going bad
Moldy food could be a sign that your loved one is unable to independently buy fresh food, or is even unaware of the food going bad. It could even mean that they are eating the rotten food or not eating at all. A caregiver can help to shop for groceries as well as prepare meals for your loved one.
If you recognize any of these signs in a loved one, it might well be time to find a caregiver for your loved ones. It’s possible that reading this, you are your loved one’s caregiver, but you realize that they might need more help than you are able to give. A private caregiver can be hired either full-time or part-time to provide care to your loved one whenever they require.