How to Determine the Level of Assistance a Loved One Needs at Home

While some seniors need a small amount of assistance to remain largely independent at home, others need more time and care to stay safe and healthy and age in place. Asking your loved ones how much care they feel they need may not give you the unbiased answer you need to provide them what they require.

Instead, you’ll need to rely on observation, conversation, and experience to determine the proper level of assistance they need. Here are five suggestions to help you decide upon the level of care your senior needs at home.

Observe general appearance and mood

Changes in your loved one’s grooming, bathing, and dressing are very good indicators of determining if personal care is needed. For example, if your loved one was always meticulous concerning their appearance and now are constantly unkempt and disheveled, they likely need an increased level of assistance.

Consider any significant life changes they’ve experienced

As time passes, many seniors find it more challenging to process and adapt to major life changes. If you’re noticing subtle changes in physical and emotional behavior, look for these things:

• The recent loss of a spouse or loved one
• Increased isolation and fewer opportunities to socialize
• Relocating from their residence to a family member’s home

If they are spending large amounts of time alone because of any of these changes, consider companion care services, as feelings of loneliness can lead to depression.

Talk with their doctor

If your loved one has maintained the same family doctor over the years, there is probably nobody who knows them much better. Over time, the trust built between a senior and their doctor is just about unbreakable.

If you can, talk privately with their doctor. Compare thoughts, observations, impressions, and concerns, and develop a care plan together that’s appropriate for your loved one. Having their doctor on board will also make it much easier for you to increase the level of care your loved one finds acceptable.

Involve other family members

If your other family members are actively engaged in care for your loved one, get their feedback as well. . Don’t make this critical decision on your own if you have siblings and other relatives that can provide suggestions based on their first-hand experience with your loved one.  Family meetings can also get everyone on the same page regarding care needs.

Talk directly with your loved one

If your loved one still has their mental faculties, there’s no need to go behind their back when determining the level of care that they need. Instead, sit down together and do an open and honest assessment with them. The more input they’re able to give, the more comfortable they will be with the level of care you help arrange for them.  The more input they give, the more comfortable they will be with the help you arrange for them.

Ask for Help

Our team at AmeriCare Plus has been helping families develop care plans for their loved ones for over 25 years. The best way to get started is to submit an online request and schedule a FREE assessment or call us at (844) 684-1253. We’re available 24/7 to take your calls and answer your questions.