Caring for your loved ones is a big responsibility. While it may seem like the best option at first, eventually it can strain your relationship and lead to feelings of overwhelm, declining health, and an increase in stress. If you're currently caring for a loved one, home health care can help. Consider some of the following signs it's time to hire an agency for assistance. 

4 Signs It's Time to Consider Home Health Care 

1. Indications of Depression

Being a caregiver takes an emotional toll on your mental health. If you find yourself feeling depressed, sad, or disinterested in things you once loved, it could be an indication that it's time to consider home health care. Remember, taking care of yourself first is important for both you and your loved one in need. The sooner you get help, the better you'll both feel. 

2. Feeling Overwhelmed 

Caring for a loved one involves a lot of responsibility. While it might seem fine at first, over time the constant work and care can cause disruptions to your schedule and personal life. This can lead to feeling overwhelmed and unable to do everything you need to do. This is normal, so it's important to know that you're not alone. Instead of continuing to feel stressed, working with a professional home health care service can help. 

3. Struggling Relationships 

Unfortunately, caring for a loved one often causes a strain on the relationship. Parents or other senior family members may feel dependent on their children, which can lead to hesitation or embarrassment. Similarly, some adult children unknowingly build a level of resentment after taking the job of caregiver. To make sure your relationship stays strong, it's important to get outside help. 

4. Declining Health

When a caregiver falls ill, it becomes difficult, if not impossible, to take care of a loved one. Regardless of if you're suffering from a short-term illness or if you receive a more chronic diagnosis, working with home health care professionals will give you the time to take care of yourself and heal. There are options for both short and long-term help. In fact, you can work with professional caregivers on your terms with as much or as little help as you need. 

If you or a loved one needs help with Activities of Daily Living (ADL), which includes meal preparation, light housekeeping, toileting, and bathing, trust the professionals at Deer Valley Home Health Services in St. Louis, MO. There's also the option of arranging for private-duty nurse visits, if you do not qualify for Medicaid. Call (314) 355-3679 to discuss your specific needs, or visit them online to learn more about their services.