The time comes for all of us when we need to get some help and support for everyday tasks. If you have an elderly relative or friend who seems to be struggling, bringing this up can be a difficult topic to broach. Everyone will need help in their lives as they get older, but it’s important to recognize the tell-tale signs that a person is struggling to look after themselves and may need some additional support. Going into the conversation about care needs with some examples will (hopefully) allow the conversation to go easier and for the person, you’re speaking with to see where you’re coming from.
What Are the Care Options for Elderly People?
The most common type of support you’ll find is home care services. There are various different types of home care, but it covers tasks like cleaning, meal preparation, and medication reminders. This is very helpful for an elderly person who is struggling to manage their day-to-day tasks on their own or who may be dealing with social isolation or loneliness.
Another common option for everyday support is personal care services. This will cover help with bathing, dressing, and toileting, etc., depending on the needs of the individual.
Care home facilities are a great option for people who need some assistance in their lives. You can search for signature care homes or your local area to find out what the options are and what support services they offer.
The Signs to Look Out For
Here are some signs that an elderly person is struggling to deal with their everyday life and could really benefit from some assistance:
Social Isolation
If your elderly relative has stopped seeing friends or even family, then they may be struggling.Â
They may no longer be able to drive or afford the petrol, they may have moved into a care home that’s far away from their family, or they could even just be feeling lonely.
Lack of Personal Hygiene
If your relative is no longer bathing regularly, or even showering at all, then they could be feeling overwhelmed by the demands of daily routines.Â
A simple task such as showering could seem like a huge ask, especially if their skin isn’t great and they’re having to put up with frequent infections or rashes.
Recent Poor Dietary Choices
If your loved one’s dietary choices have changed dramatically for no apparent reason, then they may be starting to struggle with their daily routines. If they’re eating less and less and skipping meals, then this could be a red flag.
They may no longer want to be in the kitchen, which means that cooking and preparing meals is impossible for them. They might not feel like eating because of boredom or loneliness, too.
New Injuries from Falls or Everyday Struggles
For an older person, a fall could result in serious injuries, such as broken hips. These injuries could be triggered by previously easy-to-do tasks, like tripping on a step.
If you see signs that someone is falling or having accidents, they could be struggling and need your help and support.
