How do you know when it’s time to arrange home care for an elderly parent? Here are the top five reasons your dad needs to have help from a caregiver.
His Health is Changing
Your dad’s health is changing, which isn’t surprising. Eight out of ten older adults have at least one chronic health condition. If he’s finding it harder to take care of himself, home care is essential.
If your dad has a hard time doing the laundry or remembering to take his daily medications, help from a paid caregiver makes a huge difference. He can have caregivers to help him with meals, personal care, ambulation, and so much more.
He Can No Longer Drive
Your dad’s eye doctor recommended that he stop driving. His vision is worsening and it’s not safe. Instead of making him wait until you’re free each month, hire a caregiver to drive him to stores, attractions, scenic parks, and appointments.
If he has medical appointments, you’re not forced to take a day off to drive him. His caregiver can accompany him to the appointment.
He’ll arrive on time, see his doctor as needed, and you’ll get a report from the caregiver after the appointment. His caregiver can also schedule follow-up care as needed.
He’s Fallen
Home Care in Leesburg VA
Your dad was trying to change a light bulb. He fell from the chair he was standing on and broke his leg. Maybe he fell while stepping out of the shower or while walking on wet grass while getting his mail.
No matter what led to the fall, it’s important to arrange to have caregivers to help him around the home. Once his leg mends, he may no longer need home care services, but for now it’s best to have him assisted with housekeeping, laundry, and showers.
He’s Lonely
Your dad is lonely. He calls you regularly, even if you’re at work, and you feel stuck. You don’t want to ignore him as you can tell he needs someone to talk to, but you’re at work. What can you do?
Hire home care aides for companionship. Your dad can go on outings with his caregiver. At home, he has help with household chores, but he also has someone to talk to, play games with, or eat a meal with.
He Doesn’t Cook
Your dad has never been fascinated by cooking. With arthritis affecting the joints in his hands, he no longer tries. He eats frozen pizzas, canned pasta, and canned soups. He may order takeout meals from time to time. All of it is high in saturated fat, sugar, and salt.
He needs to listen to his doctor and eat balanced meals with vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and calcium-rich dairy. Hire home care aides to cook meals and prepare snacks that meet his dietary needs.
Once you know what your dad’s care needs are, call a home care agency. Ask about prices and how to book the services he needs. Schedule services from there.
Sources:
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/supporting-older-patients-chronic-conditions
