Spot the Signs: When Is It Time for Home Care?
Seeing a loved one change as they age can be difficult. Many families begin to notice small but significant differences in their older relatives’ behaviour, health, and daily routines, leading them to consider care options. At Home Instead, we help families recognise these signs and provide tailored care solutions to support their loved ones.
A Family’s Story: Recognising the Need for Care
When Sarah contacted us about her father, Edward, she was worried. He had always been independent, but she had started to notice changes—missed meals, unopened medication, and a decline in personal hygiene. After discussing her concerns, we identified some key signs that often indicate the need for extra support:
- Memory loss – Edward often forgot appointments and conversations (70% of families report this concern).
- Personal hygiene decline – He was skipping showers and wearing the same clothes for days (48%).
- Medication management issues – Pills remained in their blister packs, leading to missed doses (44%).
- Weight fluctuations – Sarah noticed he had lost weight, likely from skipping meals (31%).
- Safety concerns – Leaving doors unlocked and minor falls became frequent worries (31%).
Creating a Personalised Care Plan
After a thorough assessment, we developed a tailored care plan to address Edward’s needs. His dedicated Care Professionals now:
- Prepares nutritious meals to maintain a healthy diet.
- Supports him with medication reminders to ensure consistency.
- Encourages personal care routines to boost confidence and well-being.
- Provides companionship, reducing feelings of isolation.
- Ensures his home remains safe, minimising fall risks.
The Impact of Care on Edward and His Family
Since starting care, Edward has regained his confidence. He now enjoys three balanced meals daily, sticks to his medication schedule, and has even started attending a local community group again. For Sarah, the biggest relief has been knowing her dad is safe and supported, allowing their visits to be quality time rather than constant worry.
Could Your Loved One Need Care?
If you’re noticing changes in a loved one, it may be time to explore care options. Visit our Home Care Services page to learn more or contact us today to discuss how we can help.
*Please note names have been changed for the discretion of the client and family member.