---

Author: Home Helpers Home Care

As a family Caregiver, your role is crucial in recognizing the signs that your loved one’s care needs are evolving. Often, we hope the little things we notice are no big deal. But how do you know when to be concerned? How do you know when you may need to intervene? How do you even start the conversation?

Asking an aging parent or loved one about their plans as they grow older can be uncomfortable. Nevertheless, it's a critical topic that should be addressed well before an immediate need for assistance or intervention. The reality is changes to health and well-being can sometimes happen unexpectedly. That's why having an open and honest conversation is essential, so everyone is on the same page.

C.A.R.E. – SIGNS YOUR LOVED ONE MAY NEED A HELPING HAND

The acronym C.A.R.E. is an easy way to remember the signs of whether or not your loved one may need extra help.

C.A.R.E. stands for:

• CUES – Are there noticeable changes to appearance, hygiene, or housekeeping?
• ASSISTANCE – Is there a need for mobility support or activities of daily living (ADL), such as getting around the house or running errands?
• RESPONSIVENESS – Are changes in cognitive functioning happening, such as repeating themselves, forgetting, or getting frustrated when communicating?
• ENGAGEMENT – Are there social interactions limited? How much time are they alone?

If you notice one or more of these signs, it might be time to start the conversation about in-home care.

EIGHT PRACTICAL QUESTIONS TO START THE TOUGH CONVERSATION ABOUT IN-HOME CARE

Below are eight questions designed to help you get the conversation started. Customize these to your situation and use them as a starting point to learn more about your loved one's wishes as they age.

1. IS THERE ANYTHING AROUND YOUR HOUSE THAT YOU NEED HELP WITH? This discussion can help identify tasks that may have become more difficult over time. Maintaining the yard, handling household repairs, or managing daily chores like cleaning or grocery shopping can present challenges. Identifying these needs early allows for appropriate solutions, such as hiring in-home assistance or implementing supportive measures, such as a personal emergency response system (PERS).

• ARE YOUR KITCHEN APPLIANCES OPERATING PROPERLY? WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU USED THEM? WHAT DID YOU COOK? This question and any follow-up inquiries may reveal whether a senior is still getting proper nutrition. Issues with appliances or mobility may make cooking less appealing or feasible. A solution to these challenges may involve considering a meal delivery service or in-home care support for meal preparation.

• ARE YOUR WASHER AND DRYER WORKING? HOW OFTEN DO YOU DO LAUNDRY? Laundry can be a physically exerting chore, especially if it requires someone to carry clothes up and down the stairs. For an older adult living alone, it may become easier to let physically challenging tasks slide when they become more difficult or inconvenient.

• HOW IS YOUR CAR RUNNING? HOW OFTEN ARE YOU GETTING OUT? WHERE DO YOU GO? Driving or having access to shared transportation is, in many ways, the definition of independence, particularly for older adults. If driving is becoming difficult, alternatives such as rideshare services, public transportation, or help from family members or professional Caregivers can support mobility and freedom.

• HOW OFTEN DO YOU SEE YOUR FRIENDS? HOW DO YOU KEEP IN TOUCH? WHERE DO YOU SEE THEM? According to the National Institute on Aging, older adults are more vulnerable to social isolation and loneliness, which can seriously affect their health. Understanding how often they have a change of scenery, socialize with friends, or participate in community or social activities is an opportunity to help them build and maintain social connections proactively.

• WHAT WOULD MAKE STAYING IN TOUCH WITH YOUR FRIENDS EASIER? Improving communication methods through technology, such as video calls or social media, can maintain connections, especially if mobility is challenging. However, as technology continues to evolve, it may not be as intuitive for the older generation. If technology is a challenge for your loved one, proactively prepare accommodations and support so they can maintain their independence while they safely age in the comfort of their home.

• IF YOU COULD CHANGE ANYTHING ABOUT YOUR HOUSE, WHAT WOULD IT BE? Listening thoughtfully to the answers about home modification is crucial. Challenges such as navigating stairs or inadequate lighting may indicate a need for adjustments. Or if they respond that they wish they had a laundry room on the first floor, that may indicate that carrying laundry baskets up and down stairs is already or likely soon will be an obstacle. Installing grab bars, stairlifts, or other safety features can significantly enhance comfort and safety.

• HAVE YOU MADE PLANS FOR WHEN DAILY TASKS BECOME MORE CHALLENGING? This discussion provides an opportunity to explore priorities regarding safety, privacy, and independence. Proactively establishing a support system involving family, friends, or professional Caregivers will make you more prepared if there are sudden changes to your loved one’s situation.

Many worry that noticing these needs will require an extensive change that may cause their loved one to lose their independence, be costly, or both. Often this isn't the case. Many people can use a little help to make life easier as they age. That's where home care can be a tremendous – and more economically viable – solution.

HOME HELPERS^® HOME CARE MAKES LIFE EASIER

We know it’s not easy to open your home to a stranger. When it comes to our care services, the safety and well-being of our clients and their families is our top priority. If you’ve noticed a need arising with your aging loved one, Home Helpers^® Home Care is here to help.

For over 25 years, Home Helpers^® Home Care has provided exceptional in-home care for seniors, Veterans, new moms and families, and those with disabilities, illness, or recovering from injury or surgery. Our compassionate Caregivers become the extended family when family can’t be there. Our services and care plans are customizable, so you receive just the right amount of care and can be adjusted as needs change.

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR SERVICES OR SCHEDULE YOUR FREE IN-HOME CARE ASSESSMENT, CONTACT US TODAY OR FIND AN AGENCY NEAR YOU.