When Should Seniors Get Elder Care?

It’s tough to know when your senior parent needs extra help to continue living on their own. Often, seniors don’t want to admit to their adult children that they are having trouble taking care of the house or themselves. They’re afraid that if they admit needing help, they won’t be able to live on their own anymore. But needing help doesn’t mean your parent can’t handle living on their own. It just means they need some help with household chores or other tasks that are physically difficult, dangerous, or tiring for them. Many seniors live quite well at home with elder care services to help them.

Recognizing The Signs Your Parent Needs Help

Because your parent may not tell you that they are having trouble with household chores or other tasks, you must pay attention to their behavior.

If you start to notice any of these signs, it’s time for elder care:

The House Is Dusty or Messy

If you notice dust piling up, floors that haven’t been swept, or clutter building up around the house, it could be a sign that your parent is struggling to keep up with housework.

Cleaning takes energy, strength, and coordination, which are things that can get harder with age. Sometimes, seniors may also lose motivation to clean if they’re feeling lonely or tired. Elder care can help by keeping the home tidy, doing light chores, and making sure the space stays safe and welcoming.

Lots of Dirty Dishes

Stacks of dirty dishes or leftover food in the sink might seem small, but they can point to bigger issues. Maybe your parent is having trouble standing for long periods, has arthritis that makes washing dishes painful, or is forgetting to clean up after meals.

It could also mean they’re skipping meals or eating less because cooking feels too difficult. A caregiver can help by washing dishes, preparing meals, and encouraging your parent to eat regularly. That way, they get proper nutrition and the kitchen stays clean.

Wearing the Same Clothes Repeatedly

If your parent wears the same outfit several days in a row, it might mean laundry isn’t getting done, or that they’re having trouble changing clothes on their own. Sometimes, seniors avoid bathing or dressing because it feels unsafe or tiring.

Elder care can help with personal hygiene, laundry, and dressing routines. Having someone patient and respectful to assist can help your parent feel comfortable, clean, and confident again.

The House Smells Musty or Unpleasant

A musty or unpleasant odor can be a warning sign that things are being overlooked. The garbage may not be taken out, spoiled food may be left in the fridge, or laundry may be piling up.

It can also mean your parent is forgetting to clean certain areas or manage spills and messes. A caregiver can help keep the home fresh, do regular cleaning, and make sure everything is sanitary. They can also watch for signs of mold, leaks, or other home issues your parent might not notice.

Expired or Spoiled Food

When you check the fridge or pantry and find expired food, that’s another sign your parent may need help. It could mean they’re forgetting to throw things out, having trouble shopping for groceries, or not eating balanced meals.

Elder care can step in to shop for fresh ingredients, cook healthy meals, and make sure your parent isn’t eating anything unsafe. Having regular meals ready also encourages better nutrition and energy.

Seniors Can Thrive At Home, With Help

With support from an elder care provider, your senior parent can still thrive living on their own. A care provider can take care of chores and other tasks so that your senior parent has a better quality of life and can spend their time doing things they like to do.

If you or an aging loved one is considering Elder Care Services in Alpharetta, GA, please contact the caring staff at CaraVita Home Care today. (770) 643-1712