4 Signs it is Time to Find a Caregiver for Loved Ones

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Watching a parent or a loved-one lose their independence can be extremely difficult to watch, and it is an experience universal for everyone in the world from Australia to Alaska. During this time, safety and security are keys to allowing your loved one to be as independent as possible. A caregiver can help to provide that safety and security so that you can have peace of mind knowing that your loved one is cared for. If you’re wondering when it’s time start to consider a caregiver for an elderly parent or loved one, there are a few signs, both physical and mental, to watch for in order to determine the right time.

Falls

Falls are a common reason that elderly individuals need a caregiver. As people grow older, their balance becomes less steady and their bodies lose tone and muscle, making it more difficult for a person to stay upright. Frequent falls can cause severe injury and even death. As a result, if your loved one is falling more frequently than they should, it may be time to find a caregiver for them.

A caregiver can help your loved-one complete everyday tasks, such as laundry, doing the dishes and taking out the garbage in a safe manner. If your loved one isn’t ready to give up these tasks yet, consider asking the caregiver to help the elderly individual complete the tasks safely, rather than doing it for them. This allows the loved one to maintain the most independence while assuming the smallest risk.

Additionally, a caregiver is able to raise alarm if your loved one falls while at home. The caregiver can not only help your loved one receive the medical attention that they need, but ensure health and safety.

Medications

Medications are key to elderly persons’ health. Many elderly individuals have several medications to take at various times throughout the day. Missing a medication or taking it at the wrong time can have severe consequences.

If your loved one is having a difficult time managing their medications, it may be time for a caregiver to step in. Caregivers can help keep medications on track and ensure that your loved one gets the correct amount. If this is the only task that your loved one needs help with, then a part time caregiver can be around solely for the help of medications. However, if more issues are of concern, consider a full time caregiver to help with additional tasks around the house.

Memory

Memory is a common difficulty among the elderly population as both short-term and long-term memories begin to fade. Short term memory plays an important role in many household tasks, such as remembering to move the laundry from the washer to the dryer or remembering to turn off the water. Sometimes, difficulties with memory can lead to safety concerns, such as forgetting to turn off a stove or oven following a meal.

If your loved one is experiencing difficulties with long term memory, they may become easily confused or anxious. Forgetting the faces of those who have been around their whole lives results in anger and confusion.

If your loved one is having difficulties with their memory, either short term or long term, consider a caregiver to reduce safety hazards and anxiety. A caregiver can ensure that everything is turned off after use, that your loved ones make it to appointments on time, and that they don’t panic when an unfamiliar face comes by for a visit. Additionally, a caregiver can assist with everyday chores that your loved one may forget to do.

Medical Issues

If your loved one has experienced various medical issues recently, it may be time for a caregiver. Regardless if they have excellent memories and balance, medical issues can cause various issues in the home. For example, severe asthma or repetitive heart attacks can be a cause for concern during simple, every-day tasks.

A caregiver can not only help your loved ones complete chores they are no longer able to complete due to their medical conditions, but they can also help keep an eye on your loved one’s health. If there is concern for further medical complications, a caregiver can be around to frequently check on your loved one and raise an alarm if something goes wrong.

So…Is it time?

If you’re considering a caregiver for your loved one, the bottom line is safety and security. There are many tasks that older individuals have difficulty completing for a variety of reasons, and there is nothing wrong with getting someone to help out. A caregiver can help an elderly individual maintain as much independence for the longest time possible. If you or your loved one is not yet sure if a caregiver is necessary or if it’s the right move, consider getting a part-time caregiver to help with simple tasks around the house or simply be the company for them. Always looks for trained caregivers, and if you want to try your hand at it you can look at aged care courses in Sydney.